Eric Garcia injury timeline confirmed

The defender, who has quietly become one of the team’s most reliable figures, had again taken his place in the backline during the tense trip to Montilivi.

In a night already clouded by frustration over refereeing and a painful 2-1 defeat to Girona, Barcelona’s problems were not limited to the scoreboard.

As the game wore on, the focus slowly shifted from tactical tweaks and missed chances to concern over a key figure leaving the pitch earlier than expected.

It has now emerged that Eric Garcia was forced off with muscle discomfort in his thigh, and the initial sensations around the injury are not positive, as reported by Diario Sport.

The defender, who had been putting in another typically committed display, had to be substituted in the 73rd minute after feeling an unexpected strain.

Although he was able to walk off under his own power – a small relief in itself – his visible frustration suggested he knew something was not right.

Early reports indicate that the issue will require careful assessment, with scans scheduled to determine the exact extent of the problem and provide a clearer timeline for his return.

Garcia’s situation is particularly worrying given his workload this season. He has featured in all 38 of Barcelona’s matches across competitions, underlining both his importance and the physical demand placed on him.

Beyond his defensive contributions, he has also chipped in with a goal and an assist, reflecting his growing influence in the build-up phase.

For now, Barcelona will wait anxiously, hoping that an initially worrying injury does not turn into a long-term setback for one of their most-used defenders this season.