Eric Garcia talks Inigo, Flick, Fermin, Dro, PSG, contract renewal – ‘Hopefully it will be done soon’ | OneFootball

Barcelona defender Eric Garcia spoke to Jijantes in a recent interview, where he confirmed that he is hopeful of completing his renewal soon.

The centre-back’s current deal with the club runs until 2026, but both sides are already aligned on extending his contract, aiming to finalise the agreement before Christmas this year.

Garcia revealed that talks are advanced, but delays earlier in the summer prevented an announcement.

“In the summer, there was the mess of the transfer market, but hopefully, it will be done soon.”

The defender also admitted that he hopes to continue for many years at the club, and perhaps one day wear the captain’s armband, just as he did in the youth categories.

“In the future, who knows?”

Life after Inigo Martinez

Garcia explained player reactions to Inigo’s exit. (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images)

With the exit of Inigo Martinez this summer, Garcia acknowledged the extra responsibility on the squad.

“It was a surprise for us. He has the right to decide his future, and he deserves it.”

“But we all have to take a step forward, we are prepared, and it is our obligation.”

He added that he is happy to adapt if needed, even filling in at right-back. “I felt very good at full-back, in the pre-season I played there, I feel very comfortable with Lamine up front.”

Barcelona under Flick

Within Hansi Flick’s system, Garcia highlighted the tactical balance between the full-backs.

“We try to ensure that the right back is not as offensive as the left back, with Rashford and Raphinha able to cut inside.”

He also reflected on last season, especially the painful Champions League semi-final exit.

“Really tough when Inter won the semi-final, but that has not affected the team’s morale. The challenge is the same.

“We want to win everything again, compete for the Champions League, even though they know us better, they know how we play, it won’t be down to individual or group quality.”

Barcelona begin their Champions League campaign away at Newcastle United, a venue Garcia expects to be difficult. “ It is a nice stadium with a great atmosphere, and it will be a good game.”

Praising young talents and dressing room spirit

Eric Garcia praised Pedro Fernandez. (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images)

Garcia also expressed delight at working with the younger players coming through. One name stood out for him.

“[Pedro Fernandez ]Dro is the one who has surprised me the most, given his age, born in 2008, he does things that are difficult to see.”

He added, “He has that thing where the ball slips away from him a little, he sticks his leg out and gets there.”

He underlined the importance of support within the squad. “The coach gives confidence to the youth players who deserve it, and we give them peace of mind. It’s not easy to train with the stars, but they have the talent to be with us.”

On the ongoing uncertainty around matches at the renovated Camp Nou, Garcia was pragmatic.

“We’ll play wherever we have to. The important thing is that it will be with our fans, which is a lot.

“The Gamper was already spectacular, although it’s true that we’d all like to play at Camp Nou, seeing how it’s turning out.”

Transfer market, Fermin, and PSG

Garcia confirms Barcelona wanted to face PSG in the UCL final. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Discussing the busy summer transfer market, Garcia admitted that players often joke about the rumours.

“We know each other so well that we already make fun of it. In the end, sometimes you find out things from others that you don’t know yourself.”

He also praised teammate Fermin Lopez, whose potential departure was often speculated on. “He has already proven that he helps the team a lot.”

Finally, Garcia was asked about the possibility of facing Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

“Well, I think we were all imagining the final against them last season, but there were small details that prevented it.”