Gerardo García – Valencia CF (27/09/2000)

Here is a European piece of exceptional prestige, from the continental golden age of an immense Spanish stable. This match issued (prepared for the match) jersey was assigned to the solid Iberian defender Gerardo García in the colors of FC Valencia during the reception of Olympique Lyonnais.

Match Context: Zahovič's touch to make OL bow down at Mestalla

For this 3rd matchday clash of the first Champions League group stage (2000-2001 season), the mythical Mestalla stadium was the scene of an intense tactical duel. Héctor Cúper's men, the competition's reigning finalists, brought their immense European experience to bear against Jacques Santini's Lyon team. While the Rhône defense resisted with great courage, the French lock finally broke in the 77th minute. It was the Slovenian playmaker Zlatko Zahovič, who came on as a substitute, who delivered the Valencian public by scoring the only goal of the match, sealing a valuable home victory (1-0).

Gerardo García: The grit and rigor of a valuable defensive soldier

A versatile, rigorous defender, capable of playing in the center or on the right flank of the defense, Gerardo García brought all his fighting spirit, his sense of positioning, and his dueling skills to solidify the Valencian team during the tough and demanding European Cup evenings. A luxury substitute and a highly respected workhorse in the locker room, this piece was meticulously prepared for him, the number 15, by the club's staff for this great continental match against Sonny Anderson's teammates. Featuring the official Champions League patch, it stands out as an extraordinary European collector's item.