Barcelona are entering a critical phase of the season as they continue juggling domestic fixtures and important European commitments.
Every squad decision is now being carefully managed as Hansi Flick looks to keep his key players fresh for the demanding schedule ahead.
In recent weeks the Catalan giants have already had to deal with a number of defensive fitness concerns, forcing the coaching staff to carefully rotate their back line.
That situation made Tuesday’s team news particularly concerning for supporters ahead of an important upcoming run of matches.
The anxiety came after a frustrating 1–1 draw away to Newcastle United, where one regular defender was surprisingly absent from the pitch.
The player in question was Eric Garcia, who did not feature at all during the match.
Reports suggested the defender had been dealing with muscular discomfort, raising questions about his availability for the next league fixture.
Barcelona supporters quickly began wondering whether the issue could rule him out of the upcoming clash with Sevilla FC in La Liga.
However, fresh information emerging from Spain has eased those fears significantly.
According to Jijantes via X, Eric Garcia has not suffered any new injury despite missing the match.
The decision to keep him out of the Newcastle encounter was reportedly a precaution taken by Flick and the medical staff.
Garcia had recently been experiencing muscle fatigue and overload after a demanding run of games.
With other defenders already dealing with fitness issues, Barcelona chose not to risk aggravating the problem.
Instead, Ronald Araujo stepped into the starting lineup for the match.
Medical tests carried out back in Barcelona have since confirmed that Garcia’s issue is minor and not considered serious.
The defender therefore remains in contention to feature when Barcelona face Sevilla on 15 March.
A final decision on his involvement will depend on how he feels closer to matchday and how quickly the discomfort settles.
Flick will ultimately determine whether Garcia returns straight to the starting eleven or begins the game from the bench.
Barcelona’s packed schedule could also influence that call.
‼️ ERIC GARCIA NO TIENE NINGUNA LESIÓN
Las pruebas médicas de esta mañana han determinado que el jugador del Barça sufre una pequeña sobrecarga. No está descartado para el partido del domingo ante el Sevilla. pic.twitter.com/msiiNgkw6Y
— Jijantes FC (@JijantesFC) March 11, 2026
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