Although FC Barcelona have started the 2024-25 season without some of their key defenders, the team’s defense has still been playing at a very good level.
Hansi Flick has not been able to count on Ronald Araujo since the start of his Barcelona stint, while Andreas Christensen has also been out since the first game of the season against Valencia.
In such a context, the German tactician has fielded Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi as his starting center-backs, and both of these players are performing at a very high level.
The Basque defender has taken a significant leap forward, and is proving himself to be one of the leaders of this team, while Cubarsi has also excelled with his tactical prowess, despite being only 17 years of age.
With their amazing performances, these two are the go-to options in the center of the backline for Flick, and other fringe players will find it very difficult to displace them from the starting line-up.
This situation is particularly worrisome for the 23-year-old defender Eric Garcia, as Fichajes reports that he is looking for greater continuity and playing time, and Barcelona, willing to facilitate his departure, have set their asking price for the Spaniard at €10 million for several European sides interested in him.
The sides showing interest in the former Manchester City defender include Real Sociedad and Borussia Dortmund, with the former being the primary suitor.
Imanol Alguacil’s team is seeking a versatile and reliable defensive addition, and Garcia would be an ideal reinforcement for them. At the same time, Borussia Dortmund is also looking for a player with Garcia’s skillset and characteristics.
The Spaniard returned to Barcelona after a highly encouraging loan stint at Girona last season. However, the competition in defense and midfield spots means he can only get limited opportunities to play under Hansi Flick.
In this situation, the player is seeking a change of scenery that would offer him more consistent playing time. Barcelona, meanwhile, understand his position and are open to a sale that would allow Garcia to become a more integral player for another team.
