Eric Garcia will operate as a right-back under new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick this season, the Spanish defender has confirmed. The positional shift emerged during the club’s 2-1 Joan Gamper Trophy victory over Al-Ahly, where Garcia started in the role with Jules Kounde repositioning into central defence alongside him.
Garcia’s New Right-Back Role Under Flick
Garcia disclosed that Flick has explicitly requested an extended trial in the full-back position rather than a one-match experiment. Speaking after the Al-Ahly fixture, the 23-year-old indicated he has already discussed the transition with his manager and expressed comfort with the arrangement.
“The manager told me that this year he’d like to try me out there. It’s a position I’m happy in,” Garcia said. “I’ve already told him that wherever I play, I’ll be happy. I feel comfortable at full-back.”
The defender also reflected on his temporary captaincy duties, adding: “It’s a privilege for me to be one of the captains, even if it’s only temporary.”
Tactical Flexibility Addresses Barcelona’s Forward Crisis
Barcelona have lost both Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres from their attacking ranks, but Garcia dismissed concerns over the club’s striking depth. The 24-cap international pointed to multiple options available across the forward line, including Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Raphinha, and academy prospect Lamine Yamal.
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“The two centre-forwards we had have left. We’re what we’ve got; I think we have plenty of options up front,” Garcia explained. “Hamza is doing very well. Luckily, that’s the sporting director’s job, not mine. We’re happy with what we’ve got, which is already a lot. If someone comes in, they’ll be welcome.”
Balde Unfazed by Cancelo Competition as Rodri Deal Looms
Left-back Alejandro Balde has dismissed worries about facing increased competition following the expected arrival of João Cancelo. The Barcelona academy product stressed his focus remains solely on personal performance rather than external commentary surrounding his position.
“The truth is, I’m a very laid-back guy. It’s true that there’s been a lot of talk around me lately – a lot of things – but the truth is, I think I’m doing things right. I’m not someone who ever reads the press, but ultimately it’s inevitable that things will come to light. I have to focus on myself and keep working,” Balde stated.
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Meanwhile, Balde has praised the imminent arrival of midfielder Rodri, describing the Manchester City captain as among the world’s elite defensive midfielders. “He’s a very good player. Right now, I think he’s the best – or one of the best – defensive midfielders in the world. He’s won a Ballon d’Or, he’s a very experienced player, and I think he’ll be a great asset to the team,” Balde remarked.
With La Liga’s campaign opener against Elche approaching, Balde acknowledged Barcelona’s unconventional pre-season caused by delayed returns of international squad members. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in the group’s readiness. “The team is in good shape,” he concluded. “We are Barça and we have to win every title.”
