Eric García Leaves Spain Camp With Knee Discomfort
The Barcelona defender was unable to play against England after experiencing discomfort during the warm-up at Wembley and will now leave the Spanish national team camp. Robin Le Normand will take his place.
Eric García was expected to start for Luis de la Fuente’s side at Wembley, but he felt discomfort during the warm-up and the coaching staff decided not to take any risks. Marc Pubill ultimately replaced him at right back.
After returning to Spain, the player underwent medical tests, and the RFEF confirmed on Sunday that he would leave the national team camp. The Federation explained that the decision was made due to the proximity of the upcoming matches and the desire to avoid taking any unnecessary risks with the player.
His place in the squad will be taken by Robin Le Normand, the Atlético de Madrid defender, who will join Luis de la Fuente’s group ahead of its next UEFA Nations League match.
An Injury Concern for Barcelona
Eric García’s situation will also be closely monitored by Barcelona, particularly because of the important role he has established under Hansi Flick at the start of the season.
The 25-year-old defender has started all six of his appearances in LaLiga this season and has accumulated 469 minutes. His most recent appearance for the Catalan side came against Sevilla, when he completed the full 90 minutes before joining the Spanish national team camp.
His ability to play both at center back and right back has made him an important option in the Catalan club’s defense. Hansi Flick has found in Eric García a player capable of adapting to different needs, meaning all eyes will now be on his recovery.
The setback also comes just weeks after the Spaniard was forced to wear a protective mask following a blow to the nose during the match against Valencia. On that occasion, he was able to continue training normally, but this time the knee discomfort prompted both Spain’s coaching staff and the player to avoid taking any risks.
Spain Awaits Eric García’s Recovery and Turns Attention to Croatia
The priority now will be to see how Eric García responds over the coming days and determine when he will be able to return to training with Barcelona.
In the meantime, Spain will have to continue its UEFA Nations League campaign without the Barça defender. Robin Le Normand will take his place in Luis de la Fuente’s squad ahead of La Roja’s next match against Croatia.
Key Takeaways
- Eric García leaves the Spain camp after experiencing discomfort in his left knee.
- Robin Le Normand has been called up to replace the Barcelona defender.
- Eric García has made six starts and played 469 minutes for Barcelona in LaLiga this season.
