FC Barcelona facing the Eric Garcia puzzle

A failed bet. Author of encouraging first steps with Manchester City, Eric Garcia (23 years old) then decided to freely join FC Barcelona in the summer of 2021. A choice of the heart for the central defender trained between 2008 and 2017 at La Masia before leaving to flourish in England. But the return to Catalonia did not go as planned for him. If he played a lot during his first season (2021/2022) alternating hot and cold (36 matches for 2808 minutes played), he saw his role diminish last season following the arrivals of Andreas Christensen and Jules Koundé to support Ronald Araujo (32 appearances for 1814 minutes played). It is therefore quite natural that with the arrival of Inigo Martinez, he was pushed towards the exit. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Girona was able to attract him with a dry loan until the end of the season.

A profitable choice for Eric Garcia who has become an executive of the Catalan club, as evidenced by his 24 appearances this season for 2 goals. Precious in the historic exercise of the current third in Liga, it is essential for his coach Michel who is under the spell: “I don't just like him because he gets the ball out…I think he's a very good defensive player. For me, he has all the conditions to be a top central defender. It’s a blessing to have him.” After Girona's 4-2 victory against FC Barcelona on December 10, Xavi also wanted to praise Eric Garcia: “If it were up to me, Eric García would not have left us. Did he play a great match today? He plays without pressure. It’s not the same thing playing for Girona as playing for Barcelona.”

Girona wants to keep him but…

And this difference plays a fundamental role. Very good in Girona but very different with an FC Barcelona jersey on his back, Eric Garcia has not convinced enough the last two years. If he has to return this summer at the end of his dry loan with Girona, his future is very unclear at the moment. Under contract until June 2026, he is part of the long list of central defenders of the Catalan club, especially since some offer more guarantees like Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé, Inigo Martinez and the young nugget Pau Cubarsi who took a place in the eleven. Added to these names are Clément Lenglet (Aston Villa) and Chadi Riad (Real Betis Balompié) who are also on loan.

The road therefore seems blocked for the moment for Eric Garcia, despite performances that could offer him a second chance. Under contract until June 2026 with FC Barcelona, ​​Eric Garcia should therefore not last long this summer with the Catalan club. According to Marca, Girona, who is very satisfied with his season, would like to keep him, especially with a possible qualification for the Champions League next year. FC Barcelona will therefore have to decide and hope to be able to sell him and get a good price two years from the end of his contract. The opportunity to make an economic contribution to the still somewhat strained finances of the Catalan club.