Eric García has given Barcelona fans something unexpected to talk about after turning up to training wearing a protective mask. 😷🔵🔴
The unusual sight comes just days after the defender was forced off during Barça’s emphatic 5–0 victory over Valencia, following an accidental collision with teammate Rodri that left him with a facial injury. García suffered a blow to the nose and was unable to continue the match.
But rather than disappearing from training, the versatile defender was back on the pitch, working normally while protecting his face. 💪🔥 That has immediately raised hopes that the problem is not as serious as initially feared.
Interestingly, this isn’t García’s first experience with a protective mask. He previously wore one for an extended period after suffering a nasal injury last season, making the latest appearance feel like a familiar but unwanted déjà vu. 😅😷
There is another twist. García is already unavailable for Barcelona’s upcoming Champions League meeting with Feyenoord because of suspension, meaning the club can afford to be cautious with his recovery. The expectation is that he could be back in contention for the La Liga clash with Levante on September 13, provided his recovery continues smoothly. 👀⚽
And Barça will certainly want him back.
García has become an increasingly important figure under Hansi Flick, offering the manager valuable versatility across the back line. He can operate at centre-back or full-back and has also been trusted in midfield. This season, Flick has increasingly looked toward him as a right-back option, making his availability particularly valuable. 🔥🛡️
His importance goes beyond the pitch too. García has been selected as one of Barcelona’s five captains for the 2026/27 campaign, alongside Raphinha, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Lamine Yamal. That is a major sign of the trust he has earned inside the dressing room. 👑🔵🔴
So while the mask may have grabbed the headlines, the bigger story is actually encouraging: Eric García is back training, Barça are monitoring him closely, and there is optimism that he can return soon. 💪😷
From getting smashed in the face to walking back into training like nothing happened… Eric García is clearly not ready to stay down! 😂🔥
#FCBarcelona #Barca #EricGarcia #HansiFlick #LaLiga #ChampionsLeague #ViscaBarca #BarcaFans #EricGarcia 😷🔵🔴
