Phoenix 24
Versatility can decide a World Cup semifinal.
Dallas, July 2026
Eric García remains one of Spain’s unused players at the 2026 World Cup, but his role could acquire greater importance in the semifinal against France. The Barcelona defender has continued preparing despite not playing a single minute during the tournament. Luis de la Fuente considers him a reliable alternative capable of responding to several tactical demands. His value lies less in a fixed position than in the different solutions he can offer.
Spain has maintained a stable defensive structure throughout the competition, limiting opportunities for rotation. Pau Cubarsí and the other regular defenders have responded effectively, while every match has carried enough pressure to discourage unnecessary changes. García has therefore remained outside the starting lineup without losing the confidence of the coaching staff. His absence from the field reflects the established hierarchy rather than a lack of readiness.
The Catalan footballer can operate as a central defender, right back or defensive midfielder. This versatility would allow Spain to modify its structure during the match without using several substitutions. García can help strengthen possession, improve the construction of play from the back or add defensive protection when preserving an advantage. Few members of the squad provide the same combination of tactical intelligence and positional flexibility.
France represents a particularly demanding challenge because of its speed, physical strength and ability to attack through different areas. Spain may need to adjust its defensive organization if the French forwards begin finding space between the lines or behind the fullbacks. García could enter to reinforce one sector while maintaining technical control of the ball. His reading of the game may become valuable if the semifinal moves away from Spain’s preferred rhythm.
The defender has accepted his secondary role while training with the intensity required for a possible sudden appearance. Tournament football frequently transforms an unused substitute into a decisive player through injuries, fatigue or tactical necessity. Mikel Merino already demonstrated the importance of remaining prepared by scoring crucial goals after entering from the bench. García now waits for a similar opportunity to contribute when the margin for error has almost disappeared.
His selection was based on more than his status at Barcelona. De la Fuente values footballers who understand several positions and can adapt without disrupting the collective system. García offers defensive judgment, technical security and experience in high-pressure matches. Those qualities make him a strategic resource even when his contribution remains invisible.
Spain has reached the semifinal through continuity, but defeating France may require alternatives beyond the established plan. García represents one of the most complete options available if the match demands a structural adjustment. He may once again remain on the bench, or he may be called upon during the most decisive moment of the tournament. The important fact is that Spain has a prepared solution before the problem appears.
Información que anticipa futuros. / Information that anticipates futures.