Eric García
BAR
Sidelined for three to four weeks
Garcia (thigh) is expected to miss three to four weeks after suffering a muscle injury to the rectus femoris of his right thigh during Saturday's 5-2 victory over Real Betis, according to the club.
Analysis: Garcia sustained the injury after coming on at halftime against Real Betis, having replaced Gerard Martin as part of a precautionary rotation. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed a rectus femoris injury that will keep the versatile defender sidelined for several weeks, ruling him out of Tuesday's Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain and Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid. His absence further reduces Barcelona's defensive options, particularly with Jules Kounde also ruled out against PSG due to an ankle sprain. Joao Cancelo could consequently see increased opportunities at right-back during Garcia's recovery.
Suffers quadriceps injury
Garcia suffered a quadriceps injury in Saturday's 5-2 win over Real Betis, according to LaLiga journalist Jose Carrasco.
Analysis: Garcia entered Saturday's game at the HT break as a precautionary move to give Gerard Martin some rest, and now the defender is at risk of missing time due to this injury. Further tests will be needed, but he should be considered questionable for Tuesday's PSG match in the UEFA Champions League. If so, Jules Kounde could start at right-back, though Joao Cancelo could be another option.
On bench against Betis
Garcia (lower leg) is available from the bench for Sunday's match against Real Betis.
Analysis: Garcia avoids an extended absence after suffering a shin contusion in midweek and is back in contention for Sunday's clash. However, after starting every league match this season, he drops to the bench, with Hansi Flick seemingly opting against immediately restoring him to the starting XI following the knock. Jules Kounde takes his place in the starting XI.
Injury doesn't seem serious
Garcia (knee) had a "small knock" in warm-ups before the UEFA Nations League win over England on Saturday, but the injury isn't expected to be serious, according to manager Luis de la Fuente. "Eric [Garcia] had a small knock in the warmup. It doesn't seem like a big thing, but we'll see tomorrow."
Analysis: The defender was expected to start against the Three Lions, but he was removed from the starting lineup a few minutes before kick-off and replaced by Marc Pubill. Further tests will determine the extent of the injury, but based on de la Fuente's words, Garcia could have an outside chance to play against Croatia on Monday in the second matchday of the Nations League.
Late scratch vs. England
Garcia suffered an injury in warm-ups and won't start Saturday's UEFA Nations League match against England, according to Diario AS.
Analysis: The Barcelona defender experienced left knee soreness during warm-ups, and the coaching staff decided not to risk him. Marc Pubill will start at right-back, and further tests will be needed to determine whether Garcia will have to miss time. Jules Kounde could replace him at Barcelona after the break if Garcia has to miss time.
Back from ban
Garcia is eligible again after missing the last contest versus Getafe due to yellow card accumulation.
Analysis: Garcia's return gives the La Liga leaders a great boost, as he could help in different positions in the back and midfield lines. He made most of his latest appearance as a central midfielder, tallying more than 40 passes and at least one tackle in each of his last five outings across all competitions. All of Gavi, Gerard Martin and Jules Kounde may split time on the pitch with Garcia depending on which role he's deployed in.
Will miss Getafe Game
Garcia is set to be suspended after accumulating five yellow cards in La Liga.
Analysis: Garcia picked up his fifth yellow card in La Liga and is now suspended for the match against Getafe on April 25. The versatile defender has been a regular starter, and his absence guarantees a shake-up in the starting XI, with Frenkie de Jong likely to start in midfield until he returns.
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