Eric Garcia has reportedly confirmed that he wants to stay at Barcelona, despite the arrival of Inigo Martinez potentially limiting his game time.
The centre-back started just 15 La Liga games last season, and with Jules Kounde potentially moving back to the centre, as well as Martinez arriving, his chance to gain regular minutes may have been reduced even further.
The 22-year-old has had a mixed spell since joining from Manchester City, with his ability on the ball standing out, but his defensive awareness being called into question.
A report from Mundo Deportivo has claimed that despite his lack of minutes, and the fact that he was asked to play out of position in midfield last season, Garcia is happy at the club, and does not want to depart this summer.
With his contract running until 2026, it now seems almost certain that the Spain international will not depart in this window.
What role can Eric Garcia have next season?
Given that Barcelona are now well stocked at centre-back, Garcia’s best chance of regular action will likely be as as defensive midfielder.
The departure of Sergio Busquets has meant that Xavi wants a new midfielder, and whilst Oriol Romeu has been targeted, Garcia could step into the role if required.
His passing ability ranks him highly among European centre-backs, and whilst he may be relatively short compared to other defenders, at six foot, he could add some aerial presence to the midfield as he covers for Ilkay Gundogan and Pedri.
His defensive vulnerabilities may be covered up if he plays further forward, and with a likely partnership of Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen in defence, Barcelona could be set for another solid season at the back after conceding just 20 goals in 38 league games last time out.