Eric García, closer to leaving FC Barcelona again in January

Published:19/10/2024 - 18:53h

Updated:19/10/2024 - 19:28h

Eric García once again questions his continuity at FC Barcelona. The central defender has been important so far for Hansi Flick, but the returns of Frenkie and Gavi will take away his minutes

Eric García's future is once again up in the air at FC Barcelona. Although the 23-year-old has been an important piece in Hansi Flick's rotations until now, the return of several heavyweights to the Barça squad, along with Girona's insistence on getting him back, raises the possibility of a new loan or, perhaps , a definitive transfer for the Catalan in the next market.

The '24' has seen minutes in 9 games this season, 5 of them as a starter. Despite his unfortunate expulsion in the Champions League debut against Monaco, Flick kept him in his lineup for the last four rounds of LaLiga, adding an assist in the win against Alavés (0-3). The defender has established himself as a defensive pivot, forming a good duo with Marc Casadó. However, with Gavi and Frenkie de Jong back, Eric will have less chance of starting.

And, in principle, the Dutchman should regain his position as soon as he recovers 100% from his physical discomfort, while Gavi will also be an important piece in the engine room alongside Fermín. García and Casadó himself would be the ones sacrificed if both '6' and '21' manage to earn their place in the XI, but the 20-year-old midfielder has more options to play due to his characteristics and the high level shown in both first months of 2024/25.

Girona will go for Eric García again in January

In that sense, the former Manchester City player could find a solution to his lack of minutes by returning to Girona in January. The Catalans already tried to sign him in the summer, but Hansi Flick closed the door on his departure as a result of the plague of injuries in the squad, in addition to the unexpected departure of Ílkay Gündogan. The '24' has responded to the trust of the German coach, but the tough competition in the culé midfield, as well as Barça's need to make money, may precipitate another farewell for the Catalan to the club where he trained.

For the Barça team, yes, the most viable operation points to a definitive transfer in the order of 15-20 million euros. García has a contract until 2026 and, at the moment, he has not received any call to renew. At Montilivi, last season he shone under the command of Míchel. In total he played 33 games (2,726 minutes), scoring 5 goals (all in LaLiga).