The Figarland bloodline was first mentioned in non Canon Material:

  • the name “Figaraland” was first mentioned in the Film RED movie in relation to Shanks bloodline by the 5 elders
    • that movie is NON Canon material so it should not matter what is mentioned there, but this seems way to specific to ignore
  • now in the most recent chapter we get Saint Figarland Garling, another member of that bloodline and God Valley
  • also Oda revealed in a Volume related to film RED (Volume Volume 4000000000 titled “RED”) that Shanks was found as an infant at God Valley
  • this paints a picture how Shanks is closely linked to the World Government, the Celestial Dragons and God Valley even before it is stated in the Canon story

So now my opinion:

  • canon secrets should not be revealed in non Canon material first, because it blurs the line between canon and non canon material, making it more difficult to see what actually is the truth for the average fan.
    • this also blurs the line as to what can be seen as a valid argument in theory crafting. Now even non canon material is cited as a source for a theory, even though this is still invalid and should always be mentioned
  • this seems to be a (admittedly smart) money making trick: reveal facts in non canon material to spur fan engagement
  • there is still a chance that shanks bloodline does not matter to the actual story, but as hints get more and more specific this becomes unlikely.