Eric García
BAR
Back available after training in full
Garcia (knee) completed his second consecutive training session without problems following his muscular overload and will be an option for Saturday's clash against Getafe, according to Diario AS.
Analysis: Garcia had withdrawn from the Spain squad with discomfort in his left knee, and this latest session suggests the issue is behind him. He is expected to be an option for Saturday's match against Getafe, and he is typically Barcelona's regular right back, so he should resume that role if he is fit.
Likely available for Getafe
Garcia (knee) appears to still be an option for the Oct. 10 match against Getafe despite his withdrawal from the Spanish national team, according to Alex Pintanel of Marca.
Analysis: Garcia is back in Barcelona working on recovery after a knee injury with the Spanish national team, with his team and club taking the cautious route following a knock. That said, he is still expected to be an option for Barcaleona following the break, having another week to continue his recovery. He continues to typically be their regular right-back, likely resuming that role if fit for the Getafe match.
Withdraws from Spain squad
Garcia (knee) has withdrawn from the Spain squad due to discomfort in his left knee, according to the Spanish national team.
Analysis: Garcia was initially considered to have an outside chance of facing Croatia after the issue was described as a minor knock, but he will now return to Barcelona instead. The defender had been removed from the starting lineup shortly before Saturday's 3-2 win over England after experiencing the problem during warmups. His withdrawal appears precautionary, with no specific diagnosis or recovery timetable announced, while Robin Le Normand has been called up as his replacement.
Injury doesn't seem serious
Garcia (knee) had a "small knock" in warm-ups before the UEFA Nations League win over England on Saturday, but the injury isn't expected to be serious, according to manager Luis de la Fuente. "Eric [Garcia] had a small knock in the warmup. It doesn't seem like a big thing, but we'll see tomorrow."
Analysis: The defender was expected to start against the Three Lions, but he was removed from the starting lineup a few minutes before kick-off and replaced by Marc Pubill. Further tests will determine the extent of the injury, but based on de la Fuente's words, Garcia could have an outside chance to play against Croatia on Monday in the second matchday of the Nations League.
Late scratch vs. England
Garcia suffered an injury in warm-ups and won't start Saturday's UEFA Nations League match against England, according to Diario AS.
Analysis: The Barcelona defender experienced left knee soreness during warm-ups, and the coaching staff decided not to risk him. Marc Pubill will start at right-back, and further tests will be needed to determine whether Garcia will have to miss time. Jules Kounde could replace him at Barcelona after the break if Garcia has to miss time.
Holds starting right-back role
Garcia has established himself as Barcelona's starting right-back this season, with Jules Kounde primarily serving as his backup.
Analysis: Garcia has emerged as the preferred option at right-back, though his versatility also allows him to provide cover in central defense when needed. The defender has recorded 14 tackles, five interceptions and 16 clearances across six La Liga appearances this season. Jules Kounde remains his main competition on the right, but Garcia's ability to cover multiple defensive positions should help him maintain a significant role.
No longer suspended
Garcia is no longer suspended in the Champions League and will be an option moving forward, though he is expected to wear a protective mask due to the issue he suffered against Valencia.
Analysis: Garcia had missed the Champions League opener against Feyenoord due to suspension, giving him time to recover from the head injury suffered in a collision with Rodri during the match against Valencia. His return to availability now positions him to reclaim a role in Barcelona's starting XI, with the mask reflecting continued caution around the earlier head issue.
Suspended for UCL opener
Garcia is also suspended for Wednesday's Champions League opener against Feyenoord, giving him time to recover from his recent head injury, according to UEFA.
Analysis: Garcia was forced off in the 28th minute of Sunday's match against Valencia after a head collision with Rodri, an issue whose severity remains unclear pending further assessment. The suspension means he will not feature for the European opener regardless of how his recovery progresses, and Jules Kounde would be the leading candidate to replace him in defense during his absence. Garcia's next chance to play will come on Sunday when the Blaugranas will face Levante.
Exits after head collision
Garcia was forced off in the 28th minute of Sunday's La Liga clash against Valencia after suffering a head collision with Rodri.
Analysis: Garcia was unable to continue following the collision, bringing his match to an early end and leaving the extent of the issue unclear. His availability for the upcoming fixtures will depend on further assessment and whether he develops any symptoms following the incident. If Garcia is forced to miss time, Jules Kounde would be the leading candidate to replace him in defense.
Reports back ahead of schedule
Garcia has rejoined training ahead of schedule as Barcelona ramps up preparations for the new season, the club announced.
Analysis: Garcia enjoyed his most consistent season yet in 2025-26, making 34 appearances as a versatile piece for the champions, capable of filling in at center back, right back or even in midfield under coach Hansi Flick. That flexibility is precisely what keeps him on the field so often, even if his production stayed modest with just one goal and one assist. He returned to training early alongside Anthony Gordon and Joan Garcia after a limited role for Spain at the World Cup. Garcia is expected to continue serving as a valuable multi-positional option as Barcelona builds toward the new campaign.
Back from ban
Garcia is eligible again after missing the last contest versus Getafe due to yellow card accumulation.
Analysis: Garcia's return gives the La Liga leaders a great boost, as he could help in different positions in the back and midfield lines. He made most of his latest appearance as a central midfielder, tallying more than 40 passes and at least one tackle in each of his last five outings across all competitions. All of Gavi, Gerard Martin and Jules Kounde may split time on the pitch with Garcia depending on which role he's deployed in.
Will miss Getafe Game
Garcia is set to be suspended after accumulating five yellow cards in La Liga.
Analysis: Garcia picked up his fifth yellow card in La Liga and is now suspended for the match against Getafe on April 25. The versatile defender has been a regular starter, and his absence guarantees a shake-up in the starting XI, with Frenkie de Jong likely to start in midfield until he returns.
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