Eric García has gone from being on the way out to becoming a key piece for the new Barça. What seemed like a simple loan to Girona to seek playing time has turned into a story of silent vindication. His versatility, tactical intelligence, and commitment have made Hansi Flick and Deco reconsider everything.
Eric is not just a center-back. He also performs as a defensive pivot and, when needed, has proven reliable as a full-back. A valuable wildcard, especially in the current context, where Barça can hardly sign players and prioritizes the stability of the squad.
Deco, firm: keep the squad
Deco is clear: there won't be major overhauls. The squad will be kept except for essential sales, and if someone comes in, it will be because Fair Play allows it. In this scenario, profiles like Eric's are revalued, for performance, cost, and versatility.
He is the Sergi Roberto of the new Barça. The player who always contributes, even if he doesn't always start. And that, for Flick, is gold.
From goodbye to prominence
In January, Eric asked to leave, he wasn't playing, he didn't feel valued, and Girona offered him minutes and trust, but Flick opposed. He bet on him and, months later, that decision has made sense. The defender has played 43 matches this season, scored 5 goals, and provided 2 assists, not minor numbers for a defender.
Without making noise, he has proven that he can be much more than a stopgap. In a team where the starters don't play everything, he has been a reliable substitute. Now, he could be a fixed piece in the new project.
Renew or sell
But not everything is ideal, Eric's contract ends in 2026. That means this summer is the last one in which Barça could sell him for an interesting amount. If he doesn't renew, they risk him leaving for free later on.
Deco is already working on it, the idea is to renew him, but it won't be easy. Eric came from Manchester City earning very little and now expects an improvement according to his role. He deserves it, but the club will have to measure every euro carefully.
Araujo, Tah, and the domino effect
Meanwhile, Ronald Araujo could leave and in parallel, the name of Jonathan Tah remains on the table. Everything fits like a delicate puzzle, if Araujo leaves, Eric gains even more weight. But if another center-back arrives and the Catalan isn't renewed, Barça could end up without either.
The decision will be made soon, Flick wants to count on Eric, Deco too. Only the agreement needs to be finalized. Because, as of today, Eric García is no longer the one who was out, he is the one who can lead from within.