Eric García leaves the training camp due to knee discomfort
Eric García left the Spanish national team training camp at Wembley after feeling discomfort in his left knee during the warm‑up for the match against England, which ended 2‑3. The centre‑back from Martorell, who was set to start, was substituted immediately and returned to Spain for medical tests.
Medical confirmation
According to the RFEF as reported by EFE, “after the tests carried out it has been decided to withdraw him given the proximity of the upcoming international commitments, thereby avoiding any risk and preserving the player’s health.” The assessment confirmed that the ailment was not serious, but both Luis de la Fuente and Eric himself preferred not to risk it worsening.
Changes for the Nations League
Robin Le Normand will take the centre‑back position in the upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia, the Czech Republic and again the Balkan side. With this decision, the Spanish side maintains defensive solidity while Garcia recovers.
Garcia had been crucial in the final stages of the World Cup final against Argentina, appearing on the pitch as a centre‑back instead of Aymeric Laporte. In London, he was chosen to start as a right‑back, which highlights his versatility against England.
Spain lose Eric García to injury and call up Robin Le Normand as replacement
Coach Luis de la Fuente, together with the player himself, chose not to take any chances; instead, Marc Pubill was called up for the flank, facing the Barcelona‑born Anthony Gordon. The decision reflects the Spanish side’s caution against any possible relapse.
Back in Barcelona, Garcia will be treated with the aim of being available for the next league match, scheduled for Saturday 10 October at 18:30 at the Spotify Camp Nou against Getafe. The Catalan has logged 469 minutes this season, placing him seventh in the ranking, ahead of Jules Koundé, who is 17th with 261 minutes.
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The second setback of the season came on 6 September, when in the Valencia‑Barcelona match he suffered a nasal septum fracture after a clash with Rodrigo Hernández. He had already suffered a similar injury in November 2025 in Bruges, but continued playing with a protective mask, missing only the fixture against Rayo Vallecano.