Despite starting the 2024-25 season without some of their key defenders, FC Barcelona’s defense has still been performing at a high level.
Since taking over, Hansi Flick has been without Ronald Araujo, and Andreas Christensen has also been unavailable after the season opener against Valencia. In their absence, Flick has relied on Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi as his central defensive pairing, and both have been excelling.
Martinez, the Basque defender, has stepped up significantly, emerging as one of the team’s leaders, while Cubarsi, despite being only 17, has impressed with his tactical intelligence. Together, they have established themselves as the first-choice center-backs, making it difficult for other players to break into the starting lineup.
This situation poses a challenge for 23-year-old Eric Garcia, who, according to Fichajes, is seeking more regular playing time. Barcelona, open to his departure, have set his price at €10 million for interested European clubs.
Real Sociedad and Borussia Dortmund are the main clubs showing interest, with Sociedad being the leading suitor. The Spanish side is looking for a versatile and dependable defender, and Garcia fits that profile. Dortmund, too, is in the market for a player with Garcia’s attributes.
After a promising loan at Girona last season, Garcia returned to Barcelona but has struggled to secure regular minutes due to stiff competition in both defense and midfield. Seeking more consistent playing time, Garcia is open to a move, and Barcelona is willing to facilitate a transfer that will allow him to play a more prominent role at another club.
