Phoenix 24
The first examinations bring relief, but Barcelona will not take risks.
Barcelona
Eric García has left the Spanish national team camp after experiencing discomfort in his left knee during the warm up before Spain’s 3-2 victory over England at Wembley. The Barcelona defender had been selected to start but was withdrawn minutes before kickoff, forcing Luis de la Fuente to modify his lineup. Subsequent medical examinations did not reveal a significant injury. Spain nevertheless decided to release him from the squad as a precaution.
The episode initially raised concern because García has become an increasingly important piece for both club and country. After returning to the team base, he underwent additional tests to determine whether the discomfort reflected structural damage. The examinations reportedly produced reassuring results, and the defender was able to leave Wembley without visible difficulty. The decision to send him back to Barcelona therefore appears designed to prevent a minor problem from developing into something more serious.
Spain has called up Atlético de Madrid defender Robin Le Normand to replace García for the remaining international fixtures. De la Fuente described the problem as minor after the match against England, although the coaching staff preferred not to expose the player to unnecessary risk. Barcelona’s medical department will now continue monitoring his condition after his return.
The timing matters for the Catalan club. García has accumulated significant minutes this season and has offered tactical flexibility across several defensive roles. His ability to operate centrally or adapt to different structures has made him valuable during a demanding calendar in which squad management can become decisive. Even a short absence can therefore affect Barcelona’s defensive planning.
The knee issue also arrives while García is still playing with facial protection following a recent nasal fracture. He suffered another injury to the same area earlier this month after an accidental collision with teammate Rodri during a league match. Although that problem did not prevent him from returning quickly, it adds to a physically demanding opening phase of the season.
For now, the most important development is reassuring. The tests have not identified a serious knee injury, but both Spain and Barcelona are choosing caution over unnecessary exposure.
Hechos que no se doblan. / Facts that do not bend.