Eric Garcia Injury Update: Why Was The Defender Forced Off In The First Half vs Valencia?

FC Barcelona went off to a flying start in the clash against Valencia on matchday 3 of the La Liga 2026/27 season, with Lamine Yamal scoring in the 6th minute. Fermin Lopez followed suit in the 24th minute, doubling the lead and putting the visitors in pole position to win the game.

However, an uncalled incident occurred in the 26th minute. We got to know about the Eric Garcia injury update, which forced him off the field in the first half. So what exactly happened? Let's find out.

What Happened To Eric Garcia?

Eric Garcia injury update says that the defender suffered a collision with his teammate Rodri while defending a corner. The ex-Man City midfielder ran into Garcia's face with his head, which has caused serious problems for the defender. He was replaced by Jules Kounde following this incident.

As per the latest reports, Eric Garcia has a deviated septum, which might need some time to recover fully. The defender used a mask last season for the same kind of injury and might don one this season as well.

There is no official statement from FC Barcelona yet on the extent of his injury and Eric Garcia return date. The defender would have missed the UEFA Champions League opener for his club against Feyenoord anyway, due to his red card against Atletico Madrid last time around.

Hansi Flick could use either Jules Kounde or Joao Cancelo to fill in the fullback position till the time the defender attains full fitness.