A key Barcelona defender is facing a spell on the sidelines after picking up a fresh injury during international duty.
FC Barcelona’s ongoing international fixtures have delivered a fresh set of injury concerns for manager Hansi Flick just as the Catalan side hit stride at the top of La Liga.
While the Blaugrana technical bench usually monitors player workload with extreme caution during national team duty, unexpected fitness setbacks continue to challenge the squad’s defensive depth.
According to an official announcement by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF),the Blaugrana star forced to withdraw from Luis de la Fuente’s squad is 25-year-old versatile defender Eric García.
The La Masia graduate pulled up with knee discomfort during a warm-up session and was immediately pulled from team activities.
Following preliminary evaluations by the RFEF medical staff, the decision was made to release the Spaniard from camp and send him back to Catalonia for comprehensive imaging tests.
The timing of García’s injury represents a significant tactical headache for Hansi Flick.
Having been utilized as a reliable utility asset across both central defense and defensive midfield positions throughout Barcelona’s strong domestic start, García’s tactical adaptability has been vital in navigating congested fixture schedules.
With senior center-back Andreas Christensen already sidelined due to a prolonged thigh injury, losing another established backline option further shrinks Flick’s rotation possibilities for upcoming La Liga and Champions League clashes.
Barcelona’s medical department at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper will conduct detailed scans upon García’s arrival to assess the exact extent of the knee issue and establish a definitive recovery timeline.
For Flick and sporting director Deco, the priority remains protecting key assets as the Catalan club aims to maintain its spotless domestic momentum upon the return of league football.
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