Eric García: centenary and great match with Barça against his former team

Eric García was one of the protagonists of the FC Barcelona in the rout against Girona (4-1). Although he did not score or assist, the defender completed a remarkable performance as a pivot, a position that Hansi Flick entrusted to him due to the absence of Marc Casadó and doubts about the physical condition of a fatigued Frenkie de Jong. Furthermore, the player from Martorell reached 100 official matches with Barça, since his debut on August 15, 2021, against Real Sociedad (4-2), in the first match of the 21-22 season.

The player from Martorell responded very well, completing 58 of 62 (94%) and recovering a couple of balls. He was also very attentive in marking, undefeated in a couple of individual duels and without committing fouls in 81 minutes. Alejandro Balde came on in his place, with Frenkie already on the field since Gavi's exit in the 66th minute.

The Dutchman certainly appreciated the rest, providing an assist minutes later for Robert Lewandowski to seal his personal double. Looking ahead to next Wednesday, De Jong will surely return to the XI in the return of the 'semis' against Atlético, but Eric will be ready for any eventuality, whether in his natural position or as a pivot.

Eric García, proud to reach 100 matches with Barça

After the match, Eric expressed his joy for the victory and for a perfect match that he will always remember, as he faced his former teammates from last season and the team that was very close to signing him again in the past winter market. The defender received a commemorative jersey and a hallway of slaps from his teammates to celebrate his centenary. In total, the Catalan has 6 goals and 4 assists in 6,006 minutes played with the blaugrana jersey.

"I always say that I am a center-back, but I am willing to help in whatever position the coach needs me. It has been a very special day. Perfect. I have been a Barça fan since I was born and, in addition, I reached this figure against Girona," commented the '24' blaugrana to 'DAZN'. In the 2024-25 season, Eric has already made 30 appearances (1,326'), with 3 goals and 1 assist. Flick convinced him to stay in January and maintains his trust in him, whether for the defense or midfield.