Hansi Flick opts for Eric Garcia as right back
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
Hansi Flick has decided to make Eric Garcia his starter as right back for the new FC Barcelona season. The tactical decision, revealed ahead of the Joan Gamper Trophy, marks a sharper specialization for the Spanish defender, who was previously a versatile player in several positions.
Why it matters
Hansi Flick's decision to make Eric Garcia his priority right-back highlights a tactical evolution at FC Barcelona. By transforming Garcia, who has already demonstrated his versatility, into a specialist on the right, Flick aims to strengthen the defense while optimizing the team's performance. This choice could have a significant impact on the coming season, particularly in terms of defensive solidity and offensive contribution from the back.
Context
Eric Garcia, who was a versatile player last season, is now expected to concentrate on the right-back position. His accumulated experience, with 51 matches played the previous season, will be essential in his transition to this more specialized role. Flick's decision to favor him in this position, even in the presence of Jules Kounde, shows the confidence he places in Garcia to contribute to Barça's defensive solidity.
Key points
- Hansi Flick opts for Eric Garcia as right back.
- Hansi Flick has decided to make Eric Garcia his starter as right back for the new FC Barcelona season.
- Hansi Flick makes major Eric Garcia decision ahead of new Barcelona season.
According to information revealed by SPORT, the German coach of Barcelona has made a major decision concerning the profile of his Spanish defender. Eric Garcia, often versatile last season, is now called upon to become the team's starting right back. Flick has in fact made him work in this sector in training since his return and plans to entrust him with this position on a more permanent basis.
This direction is not new. It had already emerged during the decisive Clasico of last season, when Flick preferred to line up Garcia as a right back, while Jules Kounde was available. This choice thus takes on an increased dimension for the coming season.
During the previous financial year, Eric Garcia played 51 matches in all competitions, including 47 as a starter, surpassing all his teammates at Barcelona. His versatility has made him play in various positions: 26 times in central defense, 13 times in midfield, 11 times on the right, and even once on the left.
However, this season the German coach wants to transform Eric Garcia into a specialist on the right. With the imminent arrival of Rodri, an experienced 30-year-old midfielder, and increased squad depth, Eric will be able to fully concentrate on this function.
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Tactically, the choice of Eric Garcia is coherent. The Spaniard averages 83 touches per game with a successful pass rate of 92%, proving his technical reliability. His ability to remain calm under pressure and to direct the game is a valuable asset in the possession strategy advocated by Flick.
Far from being a classic attacking full-back, Garcia should use his tactical intelligence to sometimes refocus in the heart of the game in order to support the midfield and allow Lamine Yamal, a young offensive talent, to project himself more on the right side.
This philosophy is also based on the emergence of Xavi Espart, recently promoted to the first team. At only 19 years old, this young player, also trained in midfield but converted to defender, could share with Garcia this hybrid role of right-back capable of off-centering and providing support to the midfield.
As for Jules Kounde, who held this position for a long time under Flick, his future in the squad seems uncertain. Although under contract until 2030 and keen to stay at Barcelona, the club would not be closed to a transfer in the event of a large offer. Kounde could find a more central place in defense, his original position in Seville.
The Joan Gamper Trophy against Al Ahly will provide a first indication of how Flick will use Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde this season. This pre-season meeting will provide a valuable overview of the German technician's strategic choices to face the 2026-2027 financial year with Barça.
The rest
The Joan Gamper Trophy against Al Ahly, scheduled for August 19, will be crucial to observe how Eric Garcia adapts to his new role. FC Barcelona fans will have the opportunity to see the first implications of this tactical decision, as well as the integration of Rodri into the squad. Garcia's performance as a right back could also influence the rest of the season, particularly in terms of team dynamics and complementarity with players like Jules Kounde.
Frequently asked questions
What is FC Barcelona's next match?
FC Barcelona's next match is the Joan Gamper Trophy against Al Ahly, scheduled for August 19.
What role will Eric Garcia have this season at FC Barcelona?
Eric Garcia is expected to become the team's starting right back this season.
How many matches did Eric Garcia play last season?
Eric Garcia played 51 matches in all competitions last season.
How does Hansi Flick's decision impact the team?
Hansi Flick's decision to make Eric Garcia the starting right back could strengthen the d
defense and allow Garcia to concentrate on a specific position.
Who is the new arrival who could influence the role of Eric Garcia?
Rodri, an experienced 30-year-old midfielder, is the new arrival who could influence Eric Garcia's role by strengthening the squad depth.
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