Seville: FC Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Real Betis proved to be a costly endeavour, as defender Eric García was forced off during the closing minutes due to a thigh muscle injury. Having replaced Gerard Martín at half-time, García had earlier made a direct impact on the scoreline by scoring Barcelona’s fourth goal, his first strike of the campaign. However, the defender subsequently started clutching at his right thigh in visible discomfort as the game progressed. Unable to see out the remaining minutes, he laid down on the turf and requested an immediate substitution, forcing Hansi Flick’s coaching staff to watch anxiously as he limped off before the final whistle.
Race Against Time Before European Showcase
The timing of the injury presents a major tactical concern for Barcelona as they enter one of the most demanding weeks of their season. Medical assessments and diagnostic tests are scheduled to evaluate the precise severity and nature of the damage to García’s right leg. While early pitchside checks suggested the possibility of a severe bruise, the discomfort displayed by the player leaves his participation in Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain in serious doubt. Flick remains waiting on the official club medical report before finalizing his travel squad for the continental fixture.
Defensive Depth Tested Ahead of El Clásico
Beyond the immediate mid-week challenge against PSG, García’s potential absence creates a considerable headache ahead of Sunday’s crucial El Clásico against Real Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou. García’s ability to cover both central defense and defensive midfield has provided essential rotational relief for Barcelona during busy fixture periods. Should medical examinations rule him out for an extended duration, the Catalans will be forced to rely heavily on a thinned backline to navigate two high-stakes encounters that could define their European campaign and domestic title defense.