Barcelona defender Eric Garcia returned to the lineup for Sunday’s match against Levante and acknowledged that his team contributed to making their eventual 4-2 victory more difficult than necessary. Garcia, who had missed the previous Champions League fixture due to suspension and wore a protective face mask following an earlier collision, felt the squad allowed their opponents back into a contest they had largely controlled.
The center-back emphasized that environmental factors such as heat and pitch conditions posed challenges, but suggested Barcelona’s defensive lapses were the primary concern. He noted that conceding two late goals transformed what appeared to be a comfortable performance into an unnecessarily tense conclusion. Garcia called for improved decision-making, stating that opponents will capitalize on any opportunity to mount a comeback if given the chance. He referenced mistakes involving teammates Xavi Espart, Pau Cubarsi, and Marc Bernal that allowed Levante to narrow the deficit unexpectedly.
Despite Espart’s costly error, Garcia defended the young player’s overall contribution, particularly his maiden goal for Barcelona’s senior squad. He praised manager Hansi Flick for demonstrating confidence in the academy product and noted the intensity of competition within the squad for starting positions. Garcia also highlighted the team’s strengths in possession and distribution from defensive areas, while emphasizing the attacking prowess of Barcelona’s forward options when opportunities arise in transition.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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