Eric García is set to be the dark horse in FC Barcelona's midfield in the first half of 2024/25. After a summer in which there was much speculation about the possible signing of a defensive pivot and his return to Girona, the Catalan centre-back ended up staying at Barça to fight for a place. Hansi Flick made it clear from the start of pre-season that he was counting on him and the minutes he has given him so far prove it.
Against Valladolid, the '24' was given the all-clear for plantar fasciitis in time to be included in the squad and ended up playing half an hour. The defender had missed the clash against Rayo due to an injury to his right foot and reappeared on Saturday at Montjuïc in what was his third game of a season. After his consecration with Spain at the Olympic Games, the 23-year-old is ready to earn his place at Barça and Flick is willing to reward his efforts. However, the centre-back will have to resign himself to playing in the centre of the field.
Flick has a clear plan to take advantage of Eric Garcia
"His natural position is centre-back, but it's good to have players who can play in several positions. You have to adapt and it's good that players like Eric or Raphinha up front can play in other positions. Eric will have to play more as a centre-half," warned the manager about the Catalan defender in the build-up to the clash against the pucelanos. Despite the game being completely decided in the second half, the manager took advantage of the opportunity to give the defender half an hour of play, who once again left a good image on the pitch, even daring to step into the rival area.
Regarding the transfer market, the Heidelberg native also confirmed his position of working with the available resources, 'ignoring' any rumours about failed signings or departures. "I have signed to be the coach here and I know what we have. I am happy with the team. Marc Bernal will be greatly missed," said the Barça manager. While waiting for Frenkie de Jong's return and what happens with Andreas Christensen in January, Flick has a clear roadmap to cover the pivot position, with Casadó and García as reliable alternatives.