24-year-old Barcelona defender steps up as a real alternative to the injured Marc Casado – Report | OneFootball

There is no shortage of competition at FC Barcelona, and that is quite the positive for Hansi Flick. So far this season, the German coach has managed to push his team to new heights thanks to the immense pressure each player has on them to deliver. With all that pressure and effort, Barcelona have established themselves as a threat.

However, there are some players who are seen as guaranteed starters and others who are seen as occasional options and rotational players. Still, it is crucial for any coach at a top level club to have all of their options available to them.

Unfortunately, the recent injury to Spanish midfielder Marc Casado paints a rather grim picture. Now set to be sidelined for approximately two months, there is a dire need for alternative options to step up in his stead.

While Frenkie de Jong will undoubtedly be the primary candidate given that he is already Hansi Flick’s preferred option alongside Pedri in the midfield, there is another player who may want the challenge. Previously expected to leave, the 24-year-old defender has now reimagined himself as a defensive midfielder as well.

As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, Spanish defender Eric Garcia has proven himself at the perfect moment. By coming on against Atletico Madrid in Barça’s most recent game, he helped the team go from being 2-0 down at the Metropolitano to winning 2-4.

Moreover, throughout this season, Garcia has played a total of 28 games, and 11 of those appearances of his have been as a defensive midfielder. With three goals and one assist to his name as well, the Spaniard definitely seems to have developed a knack for goal contributions as well.

Despite the fact that he may not be the perfect defensive midfielder, Garcia has things to offer as well. Better aerially than Casado, he also has better defensive ability and positioning as per the report, and has a broader vision with the ball at his feet as well.

With the calendar for Barcelona now being tighter than ever, especially with the controversial scheduling of the game against CA Osasuna, Barcelona have to adjust somehow. Even if rotations come into play because of that, Garcia knows that this is exactly the kind of challenge that Flick wanted him to stay at the club for.