Even though all Barca headlines currently highlight registration issues, Eric Garcia’s potential move is another story worth discussing. Garcia came back to Barca after his successful loan spell at Girona.
After struggling to find a spot in Flick’s Barca, the 23-year-old has sought alternative options. Girona has also been keen to sign him permanently during this January transfer window. Here’s the whole story.
Eric Garcia’s Future: Will He Go or Stay?
Eric Garcia’s Journey
La Masia defender Eric Garcia has had an interesting career trajectory. He started at the Barca youth academy and then went to Manchester City aged 17. Garcia returned to Barca in 2021, dreaming of playing for his boyhood club.
Garcia has struggled to find playing time during his brief run so far. He has had tough competition from Araujo, Kounde, and Christensen and was loaned to Girona in 2023. His successful loan spell ended in June 2024, and he has 13 starts under his belt so far.
The January Transfer Buzz: Girona’s €10 Million Bid
Rumors have been swirling around Garcia’s future since December. Girona had an amazing run in La Liga last season and finished third on the table. Barca lost both matches against Girona 4-2 the previous season. Garcia proved to be a pivotal starter for the club and has won the manager’s trust.
Girona has reportedly tabled a €10 million offer to sign the defender permanently. The bid is tempting for Barca, considering the club’s financial issues. Garcia’s departure would definitely help Barca’s monetary struggles, but it would also take away some squad depth.
Hansi Flick’s Take on Garcia’s Potential Move
Coach Hansi Flick recently addressed the Garcia transfer rumors in a press conference. The coach has lauded Garcia as a brilliant player. He said:
“For us, he is ours and he is a good player. He is an intelligent player who can play in different positions. We are not thinking about his departure at the moment.”
Flick has shown reluctance to confirm Eric’s departure. He knows many key players have been injured, and the squad needs depth. Garcia has also been helping in midfield as a defensive midfielder.
What This Move Means For Girona and Eric
Eric Garcia has some great qualities and is quite a mature center-back for his age. He has fine tactical awareness, shows composure under pressure, and can find the forward pass to link up with the midfielder. As mentioned earlier, he can also become a pivot and serve as a solid option as a CDM.
Girona could enjoy a significant boost in their lineup with Garcia’s entry. The club has been struggling recently and is currently ranked 8th in La Liga. The Champions League has also been a nightmare for Girona, as the club is at the 30th spot in the table.
Although Fabrizio Romano has talked about this transfer, it is not yet finalized. Barca could benefit with this move to register Olmo. Garcia, who is young and talented, can also revive his career by moving back to Girona.