Barcelona boss Hansi Flick surprised a few with his starting XI for Saturday’s La Liga clash with Mallorca as he started Eric Garcia over Jules Kounde.
The Frenchman agreed a new long-term contract at Barcelona this week but had to settle for a place on the bench at Son Moix, although he did come on late in the second half.
Flick was asked about his thinking after the win and said his decision was down to Eric’s impressive performances in pre-season.
“In the preseason, Eric has been very good and deserved
to play, that’s all. As a coach, I make decisions based on the players’ performances. Kounde is also at a great level,” he told reporters.
Eric has emerged not just as an option at right-back but seemingly as genuine competition for Kounde for the 2025-26 season after shining last year under Flick.
Garcia’s performances at right-back also seem to have spelled bad news for Hector Fort. He is now being tipped to depart the club before the close of the transfer window.
