Barcelona versatile defender poised for Spain call-up amid impressive form | OneFootball

Eric Garcia has been one of the bright sparks for Barcelona this year.

Once regarded as a fringe player with no future at the club, the former Manchester City starlet has become a vital cog in Hansi Flick’s defensive unit.

From being considered a utility player, Garcia has become a key competitor for Jules Kounde at right-back, with the Spaniard even starting in the league opener against Mallorca.

Garcia’s rapid growth may even earn him a contract extension at Barcelona, which will secure his long-term future in Catalonia.

Garcia set for a Spain call-up?

According to SPORT, Garcia’s impressive performances at right-back could also help him earn a national team call-up soon.

The 24-year-old has played for La Roja 19 times since debuting in 2020 under Luis Enrique. However, ever since the appointment of Luis de la Fuente, the defender has yet to make a single appearance for the team.

Eric Garcia started ahead of Kounde against Mallorca. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

That could soon change, with Spain slated to take on Bulgaria and Turkey in the upcoming September international break.

The report suggests Garcia’s performances have not gone unnoticed, and it is on De la Fuente’s agenda to potentially call him up in September.

Garcia’s services could be useful for La Roja, who have Martin Zubimendi as the only designated defensive midfielder.

De la Fuente, though, would ideally employ the Barcelona defender in the right-back position, where he might compete with the likes of Marcos Llorente and Dani Carvajal.

Therefore, it will be imperative for Garcia to keep earning starting roles for Barcelona this month as he looks to earn a well-deserved return to the national team after three years of absence.