Reason why versatile Barcelona star was taken off at half time during Copenhagen win | OneFootball

Barcelona’s Champions League victory over Copenhagen came with a moment of concern involving Eric Garcia, who was forced to remain in the dressing room at half-time after suffering a worrying blow to the face. 

According to Mundo Deportivo, the decision to withdraw the defender was purely precautionary, taken by the club’s medical staff and coaching team during a demanding phase of the season.

Eric had been one of Barcelona’s most active players in the first half. The defender, who started in midfield, came close to opening the scoring with a powerful effort that crashed against the crossbar. 

What happened to Eric?

As such, his night took a turn after taking a heavy hit to the face during open play. 

The impact left him feeling dizzy, which was a clear warning sign that could not be ignored.

After the interval, Garcia did not return to the pitch, and following discussions between the player, Hansi Flick, and club doctors Ricard Pruna and Carles Gomez, the decision was made to substitute him immediately. 

Given the symptoms, the priority was player safety rather than taking any risks in a match that Barcelona were still controlling.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eric Garcia Martret (@ericgm3)

To maintain balance, Flick turned to Marc Bernal, introducing the young midfielder in a role similar to the one Garcia had been performing. 

Bernal operated as a classic pivot, offering positional discipline and security in the middle of the pitch. 

His introduction allowed Barcelona to keep their structure intact without forcing unnecessary tactical changes.

Bernal wasted little time making his presence felt. Shortly after coming on, he tested the Copenhagen goalkeeper with a well-struck effort from distance. 

It must be noted that Barcelona’s options have been stretched in midfield, as Pedri has been sidelined, while Frenkie de Jong was unavailable against Copenhagen due to suspension. 

These absences have forced Flick to rotate and rely on younger profiles, a challenge the coaching staff appears comfortable managing.