Eric Garcia returned to Barcelona last summer following a successful loan at Girona. His impact was so significant that, before the transfer window closed, the Montilivi-based club attempted to re-sign him.
However, injuries to Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, and Marc Bernal prompted Barça to prevent his departure. Furthermore, Hansi Flick's strong confidence in the player persuaded the versatile star to remain with the team.
The German manager showed his confidence in Garcia by playing him as a defensive midfielder, but a troublesome pubalgia injury forced the Catalan to sit out for several weeks.
When Garcia returned, he discovered his playing time had decreased because Marc Casado and Pedri were solidly established in the double pivot role, while Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez excelled in central defense.
Nonetheless, every time Garcia has been given opportunities, he has stepped up, sustaining Flick's confidence in him.
Garcia probably won't depart despite the interest.
Despite his diminished role, Garcia has drawn interest from several La Liga teams that have approached him with offers for a potential winter transfer.
Girona's head coach, Michel, is eagerly advocating for the former Manchester City youngster to come back and maintains regular communication with him. Garcia was instrumental in Girona’s landmark season last year. At the same time, Real Sociedad has also expressed interest in acquiring his talents.
According to SPORT, it seems unlikely that Garcia will leave in January for two main reasons. Firstly, the player himself would rather stay with Barcelona until the end of the season and reconsider his future during the summer.
Since his contract runs until 2026 and no renewal offer is currently on the table, he might contemplate leaving at the end of the season.
Secondly, the defensive lineup of Barcelona complicates any potential departures. Ronald Araujo is reportedly the most likely defender to leave this January, with strong interest coming from Juventus and Arsenal.
Barcelona would be reluctant to let go of two central defenders in the same window, as it would leave them with only three options: Cubarsi, Inigo, and Andreas Christensen.
The situation might shift in the summer, especially with Jonathan Tah expected to join on a free transfer from Bayer Leverkusen.
As of now, Garcia is steadfast in his commitment to remain with Barcelona, and a more definitive decision about his future is anticipated come summer.