Barcelona has made a series of important decisions in recent days. Following the defeat against Leganés, Joan Laporta has confirmed an expected departure.
This time, the one who seems to be on the chopping block is Eric García. The young center-back hasn't managed to establish himself as a starter in the team. Now he might leave the Barça team in the upcoming winter transfer window.
The Return of Araújo and the Complications for Eric García
With the return of Ronald Araújo, Eric García's situation becomes even more complicated. The Uruguayan defender was drafted for the match against Leganés and is expected to rejoin Hansi Flick's orders after his recovery.
Araújo's return, along with the presence of players like Pau Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez, places Eric García in a difficult position within Barça's defensive hierarchy.
Despite some good performances, his lack of minutes and adaptation have sidelined him from the rotation. With fewer opportunities to play, the defender's future seems increasingly uncertain.
Interest from Girona and Real Sociedad
In this context, Girona and Real Sociedad have shown interest in acquiring the services of the 23-year-old center-back. Girona, which already attempted to sign him in the last summer market, is the club closest to closing his loan. Míchel, Girona's coach, gave Eric García significant prominence last season, which has fostered a good relationship between both parties.
On the other hand, Real Sociedad is also willing to request his loan in January. Girona might have the advantage, as Barcelona values his time with the team and believes he would improve there. Additionally, the club led by Míchel would be willing to include a purchase option in the loan contract.
The Need to Free Up Space
One reason to let Eric García go is the need to free up space to register other players. At the moment, the club still hasn't been able to register Dani Olmo or Pau Víctor due to financial and team issues. Eric García's departure could facilitate the registration of these players and ease the financial situation.
Barcelona is facing a complicated restructuring of its team, and Eric García's departure could be another step toward finding short- and medium-term solutions. Although his future seems to be moving away from the Catalonian city, the center-back still has options to continue his career in Spain, with Girona as the most likely destination.