Hansi Flick provides an update on the two Garcias ahead of the Rayo Vallecano game – Report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona’s incredible 7-2 victory over Newcastle United in the Champions League was overshadowed by the injuries suffered by Eric Garcia and Joan Garcia. After the game, it emerged that the latter was fine and available for selection.

Now, Barcelona go into the Rayo Vallecano game with clarity on two important squad situations, and Hansi Flick has removed most of the doubt. The coach spoke plainly about Joan Garcia and Eric Garcia, with one seemingly set to start and the other expected to play only a limited role.

As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Flick confirmed that Joan Garcia is likely to start against Rayo after the concern caused by his early exit against Newcastle. The goalkeeper came off in the 83rd minute of that game with discomfort, but the report says it was only a scare and not an injury.

He said:

“He can play tomorrow. I am happy for him with the national team call-up.”

It is massive news for Barcelona that their first-choice goalkeeper is available for selection. The same, however, cannot be said about his namesake. The update on Eric Garcia was less positive. Here is what Flick said:

“He will be on the bench, we will see. It is possible that he will not play, but he will be on the bench, which is good news. Maybe he is not ready to play because of the overload.”

That is probably the sensible call. Eric has been useful for Barca this season, but with bigger matches still ahead, there is no reason to force the issue over a problem that could worsen. Xavi Espart has done enough to deserve another run at right-back against Rayo.

With an international break right around the corner, it makes sense for Flick not to want to take any risks with Eric. We will have to wait and see how things develop with the Spaniard in the coming weeks.