CARSON, Calif. - After 10 seasons in the Mexican Primera Division, Johnny Garcia joined his first professional club outside of his hometown Chivas de Guadalajara.
As Chivas USA's newest acquisition, Garcia's first impression of his new club was simple.
"This is a hard-working team and a very disciplined team. Everybody works and gives it their all," Garcia said. "That is very motivating."
Garcia will likely be on Chivas USA's gameday roster for Sunday's match against D.C. United. Chivas USA coach Bob Bradley did not say whether Garcia would start, play as a substitute or how much time, if any, he would see.
"Without making any commitment, he'll be on the 18 (man roster). We'll see how the game goes," Bradley.
On Thursday, Garcia was part of a seven-man squad during training that included fellow newcomer Jesus Morales and former Guadalajara teammate Francisco Palencia. Garcia sat back in a defensive posture for most of the short-sided scrimmage, as was expected. Garcia spent time as both a defensive midfielder and central defender for Guadalajara.
Bradley was pleased with Garcia's advancement.
"He's made a lot of progress on the fitness side because when he arrived he was behind," Bradley said. "He works hard in training every day. He's got a very good mentality. I thought (Thursday) was probably his best day so far."
Garcia suddenly gives Bradley an experienced option off the bench and some decisions to make. A week ago, Chivas USA was down a pair of starting midfielders as Juan Pablo Garcia and Francisco Mendoza were both suspended for the club's match against Houston. Bradley started Brent Whitfield, who played for the United Soccer League's Seattle Sounders a year ago.
Garcia has played 138 games in the Mexican top flight for Guadalajara and could challenge incumbent central midfielders Jesse Marsch and Sacha Kljestan for playing time.
"It helps a lot because we didn't have that deep of a squad but now with Johnny and (Jesus) Morales, they help us reinforce all of our lines," Palencia said. "It comes a time when the season becomes the most difficult."
Still, Garcia said he understands nothing will be handed to him.
"I have to work hard," Garcia said. "I'm fit and now I just need to see where the coach wants me and I'll be there to answer."
Luis Bueno is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
