Eric Garcia Leaves Spain Squad with Left Knee Discomfort in Wembley Warmup
Eric Garcia departed the Spanish national team’s training camp immediately after experiencing discomfort in his left knee during the pre-match warmup prior to their fixture against England at Wembley Stadium. The central defender from Martorell was evaluated by medical staff upon returning to Spain following the team’s 3-2 victory over the English side. According to reporting from Mundo Deportivo, the ailment is not considered serious, but neither national team coach Luis de la Fuente nor the player himself wanted to risk aggravating the condition. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) stated through an official communication that medical evaluations prompted the decision to release the player from the squad to preserve his health and avoid any further risk given the proximity of upcoming fixtures.
To cover the absence for upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Croatia and the Czech Republic, head coach Luis de la Fuente called up Robin Le Normand as a replacement. The setback occurred after Garcia was selected to start at right-back in London to counter threats on the flank, though the unexpected physical issue forced a late tactical shift that saw Marc Pubill step into the starting lineup instead.
Barcelona Medical Team Evaluates Defender Ahead of Getafe Fixture
Following his release from international duty, Garcia returned to Barcelona to undergo further assessment and treatment under club supervision. Staff aim to have the defender fully available for Barcelona’s upcoming La Liga fixture against Getafe, scheduled for Saturday, October 10, at the Spotify Camp Nou. The Catalan defender remains an important figure in Hansi Flick’s squad this campaign, having accumulated 469 minutes across appearances to establish himself as a regular fixture in the side.
Medical staff from both the national team and the club maintained communication throughout the evaluation process to ensure a cautious approach to the player’s recovery.
Second Physical Setback of the Current Campaign
This development marks the second physical interruption of the season for the defender. On September 6, during a league fixture against Valencia, Garcia was forced to exit the pitch after fracturing his nasal bone following an accidental collision with teammate Rodrigo Hernández.
The Spanish national team continues its Nations League schedule without further immediate additions beyond Le Normand, while Barcelona monitors Garcia’s recovery timeline ahead of the domestic return next month.
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