Key Barcelona defender substituted against Newcastle United with possible injury | OneFootball

Just when things were looking up for FC Barcelona in their UEFA Champions League clash against Newcastle United, they have been dealt a setback.

The Blaugrana, having taken the lead in the game, had to withdraw key defender Eric Garcia with what appears to be an injury.

The Barça No. 24 had not started the first leg against Newcastle at St James’ Park last week due to a muscular overload.

Even though he returned to the squad against Sevilla this past weekend, Hansi Flick had opted not to risk him and did not give him any minutes.

However, as expected, Eric was back in the starting lineup for the must-win game tonight, starting at right-back in the Barcelona defensive line.

But, just 20 minutes into the match, the Spanish defender seemed to have aggravated his overload and was no longer able to continue on the pitch.

As such, he asked for a substitution, with Ronald Araujo coming onto the field to replace the injured defender.

A clearer picture of the severity of the problem and a potential recovery timeline will emerge after the match.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United have once again equalised minutes after Eric’s substitution, with Anthony Elanga cancelling out the goals scored by Raphinha and Marc Bernal.