This weekend, the Clásico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid is not just another match. This game, key for the League title, brings a strategy to stop Vinícius Júnior, one of the most in-form players.
The surprise is that neither Ronald Araújo nor Jules Koundé will face him. The task falls on Eric García, a footballer who has been called by many the "archenemy" of the Brazilian.
Barça prepares for the Clásico
Barcelona arrives at this match with two significant absences in its defense. The absence of Koundé and Balde leaves a gap that, it seems, will be filled by Eric García.
The Spanish defender is emerging as the key to stopping Vinícius Júnior, who is going through an exceptional moment. With his outstanding performance in the semifinals against Inter, García becomes a key piece for Hansi in this crucial match.
The history between Eric García and Vinícius Júnior
The curious thing about this tactical decision is that, in reality, the confrontation between Eric García and Vinícius is not something new. This "rivalry" dates back to the 21/22 season, when the Barcelona center-back made a comment that stayed in everyone's memory.
In that Clásico at Santiago Bernabéu, Eric García told Vinícius: "You next year Ballon d'Or, Ballon d'Or." Although it wasn't so literal, the words of the Catalan defender were etched and foreshadowed what was to come.
Although Vinícius hasn't yet achieved the desired Ballon d'Or, his performances in recent years have been outstanding. In the 22/23 season, he achieved European glory with Real Madrid by winning the Champions League, and in 23/24 he has kept a very high level.
Hansi Flick and the anti-Vinícius plan
In this context, Hansi Flick has devised a plan to stop the Brazilian striker. Despite the importance of Ronald Araújo in the blaugrana defense, his last performance in the elimination against Inter Milan was not the most outstanding. That's why, according to reports from SPORT, the coach has decided that Eric García will be responsible for stopping Vinícius during the Clásico.
The decision is not random. Eric García, less physical than Araújo, could stop Vinícius with his agility and reading of the game. However, the task won't be easy. The Brazilian is an unpredictable player capable of making a difference at any moment.