Eric Garcia Injury Update: Barcelona Confirm Defender Suffers Broken Nose Ahead of Celta Clash

Barcelona have confirmed that defender Eric Garcia sustained a broken nose during Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Club Brugge. The injury occurred late in the game, leaving the 32-year-old center-back facing a race against time to be fit for Sunday’s La Liga match against Celta Vigo.

In an official medical statement released Thursday, the club announced that Garcia will be fitted with a protective mask to allow for a quicker recovery. His availability for the weekend fixture will depend on how well he adapts to the protection and responds in training.

Barcelona Confirm Nasal Fracture and Recovery Plan

The statement from FC Barcelona read: “First-team player Eric Garcia has suffered a nasal fracture. He will be fitted with a protective mask and his recovery will determine his availability for the upcoming match against Celta.”

The injury adds to the club’s growing list of defensive concerns following a disappointing draw in Belgium. Manager Hansi Flick’s side once again came under scrutiny for defensive errors and their persistently high line, which has cost them goals in recent fixtures.

According to reports from Barca Blaugranes and Spanish outlets, Garcia was seen holding his face after an aerial collision in the closing minutes of the match. Despite finishing the game, medical checks afterward confirmed the nasal fracture. The club’s medical team acted promptly to assess the extent of the injury and design a recovery protocol.

While the injury is not considered long-term, it presents a delicate situation given the physical nature of La Liga fixtures. Garcia is expected to undergo light, non-contact training over the next 48 hours before a final assessment ahead of the weekend. Barcelona are hopeful he can feature with a face mask, similar to how many defenders have played through similar injuries in the past.

Possible Defensive Adjustments for Barcelona

If Garcia is unable to feature, Flick will likely turn to Ronald Araújo, Pau Cubarsí, or Andreas Christensen to fill the defensive line. Barcelona’s rotation options remain strong, but the team’s defensive inconsistency has been a recurring theme this season.

The draw against Club Brugge left Barcelona fans frustrated, as lapses in concentration once again proved costly. With matches coming thick and fast across competitions, the timing of Garcia’s injury could not be worse. Flick, under increasing pressure, will hope his defensive unit stabilizes before tougher fixtures later this month.

Eric Garcia’s resilience has been a defining trait throughout his career, having previously dealt with injuries during his time at Manchester City and early Barcelona years. The defender’s leadership and composure at the back have become vital components of Flick’s system, especially in high-tempo matches.

As Barcelona prepare for Celta Vigo, Garcia’s recovery will be closely monitored. If cleared, he will likely play with a protective mask—demonstrating once again his commitment to the team and his readiness to adapt to adversity.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What injury did Eric Garcia suffer?

Eric Garcia sustained a broken nose during Barcelona’s Champions League match against Club Brugge on November 5, 2025.

Q2: Will Eric Garcia play against Celta Vigo?

Barcelona have not ruled him out yet. His participation depends on how he responds to wearing a protective mask during recovery.

Q3: How did Eric Garcia get injured?

Garcia suffered the injury during a late-game collision while defending a set piece in the Champions League draw with Club Brugge.

Q4: What did Barcelona’s medical team say?

The club confirmed that Garcia has a nasal fracture and will be fitted with a protective mask to aid recovery.

Q5: Who could replace Eric Garcia if he’s out?

Ronald Araújo, Pau Cubarsí, and Andreas Christensen are the likely replacements for Garcia if he cannot play against Celta.