Eric García hits century mark for Barça in career-best season
The versatile defender notched his 100th start in Blaugrana colours during the Copa del Rey clash with Albacete, cementing his status as Hansi Flick's most reliable asset.
Eric García is enjoying his finest individual campaign in a Barcelona shirt, reaching a significant milestone that speaks volumes about his importance to Hansi Flick’s project.
Century maker in top form
The Martorell-born defender chalked up his 100th start for Barcelona during their Copa del Rey tie against Albacete. García has become the definition of a utility player under Flick, who clearly sees him as the perfect Swiss Army knife for any defensive or midfield conundrum.
What’s particularly impressive is that García has already amassed 31 starts this season - and we’re only in February! His previous best was 32 starts during his debut 2021-22 campaign, a number he’ll absolutely smash at this rate. For context, he managed just 18 starts in 2022-23 and 19 last season.
Flick’s main man
The German gaffer has clearly unlocked García’s potential. The versatility merchant has been relegated to the bench on only four occasions all season, regardless of competition or opposition. He even spent several weeks playing with a protective mask after suffering a nasal fracture - proper commitment to the cause, that.
Position impossible?
Not for García, who’s demonstrated remarkable adaptability this term:
- Central defender
- Right-back
- Left-back
- Defensive midfielder
The Albacete match perfectly showcased this flexibility, with García changing positions three times during the tie! He started as Araújo’s centre-back partner, shifted to right-back after half-time when Cancelo was subbed off, then returned to central defence when the Uruguayan was withdrawn.
Mr. Dependable
The Albacete fixture wasn’t just García’s 100th start - it also marked his 150th official appearance for Barcelona. He’s literally been ever-present this season, featuring in all 35 matches - more than any other squad member. Kounde follows with 34 appearances, Rashford with 33, and Gerard Martín with 32.
For a player who’s had to graft for recognition, García’s transformation into Barcelona’s most reliable performer is a proper Bobby Dazzler of a comeback story. Talk about finding your feet at the right time.