Eric Garcia talks Puyol, Cubarsi, Atletico comeback, refereeing controversy, La Liga and UCL ambitions | OneFootball

In a detailed interview with Mundo Deportivo, Eric Garcia spoke about his personal inspirations, tactical versatility and Barcelona’s ambitions this season. 

The defender gave a calm but confident assessment of where the team stands heading into the decisive months.

Garcia began by revealing that he remains in regular contact with club legend Carles Puyol, who continues to guide him. 

When asked about his role models, he made it clear who shaped his understanding of defending.

“Puyol. What I’ve been able to talk to him about, what I saw as a child, what he conveyed. And [Javier] Mascherano too. 

“They are two people who led by example, with sacrifice, intelligent on the field and who gave their all. 

“I do have a closer relationship with Puyi. He has always tried to help me; he is approachable and we have people in common.”

Partnership with Cubarsi

Eric Garcia has formed a stable partnership with Pau Cubarsi. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

With his partnership alongside Pau Cubarsi becoming more consistent, comparisons have naturally followed. Garcia explained the connection between them.

“Cubarsi and I already had the Olympic experience together. I came from Girona, and he was already at Barça. 

“We got on well on and off the field. He’s very young, with incredible potential, and that brought us together. Now we understand each other very well. 

“But if I play with Ronald, I’ve also been with him for many years; with Andreas; with Geri, who is playing centre back. 

“We have very good options at the back. But with Cubarsi, I already had that previous connection.”

On his tactical flexibility, something that has helped him earn minutes, Garcia admitted that adapting has always been part of his game.

“I’ve always liked adapting. My year in Girona opened me up in that sense. Now it’s almost normal, especially at the start of the season. 

“Less so since December, but it makes you grow and is useful for the team.”

Although he has played multiple roles, he clarified where he feels most natural.

“Yes. I’ve always played center back. I feel comfortable at full back; I played almost exclusively there in Girona. 

“I find playing pivot the most difficult, but I adapt depending on the type of game.”

Current situation

Eric Garcia prefers to stay positive. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Turning to the title race, Garcia acknowledged Barcelona’s recent dip but backed the team’s mentality.

“We’re used to winning a lot. When we get two bad results, it’s time to reflect. I think it can strengthen us for the final stretch. 

“We’ve regained the lead and I’m still confident that we can come back in the Cup. And then the Champions League, where we’re already in the exciting rounds.”

Reflecting on difficult matches against Atletico Madrid and Girona, he was honest about shortcomings.

“Against Atletico, everything came together in the first half. It was a matter of intensity and attitude. 

“In a Cup semifinal, we should have gone out with a different mentality. The disallowed goal, seven minutes of stoppage time, really screwed us over. 

“And against Girona, we suffered a lot; it was a scrappy game. They’re strong with the ball at home. It was a week to talk about a lot of things and improve. 

“Against Levante, the team did what it had to do.”

Refereeing controversy

On refereeing controversies this season, Garcia remained composed.

“The mistake has been admitted, but we can’t control it. The coach always says we have to focus on our own game.”

When asked whether official apologies bring comfort, he answered, “The game is over and they’re not going to give us the points back.”

Looking ahead to the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico, Garcia expressed belief.

“With this coach, the team has shown that it never gives up. At home, with the fans and almost the entire squad available, we have enough quality. 

“If we score early, the stadium will come alive and we’ll have to take advantage of that. I think we can come back.”

La Liga and UCL

Garcia feel Barcelona can win La Liga and UCL. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Speaking about the tight La Liga race against Real Madrid, he placed responsibility on the squad.

“It’s a challenge and it’s up to us to become champions. The Real Sociedad game was one we shouldn’t have lost because we deserved to win. 

“The other day in Girona, regardless of the referee’s mistake, we weren’t at the level we should have been. 

“But I think the team is ready. We have some difficult away games left, but we have the quality to do it.”

With the Champions League draw approaching, Garcia stayed realistic but optimistic.

“Whichever team we get, it’s going to be difficult, but playing the second leg at home always helps. 

“We’ve also had two quieter weeks, so we’ve been able to recover physically. 

“Last year, the game in Milan hurt us a lot, but a year has passed, we have more experience, and I think that will help us.”

Finally, when asked directly if Barcelona can lift Europe’s biggest trophy despite strong English competition, Garcia delivered a bold statement.

“I believe in our idea and our game. I think we’re the best. 

“Then we have to prove it on the field, but I’m convinced we can fight for the Champions League and for all the titles,” he concluded.