Barcelona have suffered a fresh defensive concern after Eric García was forced off injured during Sunday's LaLiga clash with Valencia, with early reports suggesting the defender has suffered another problem with his nose.
García was unable to continue after an accidental collision with teammate Rodri during a set-piece situation at Mestalla, bringing an early end to his afternoon.
The Barcelona defender left the pitch in the 28th minute, with Jules Koundé coming on as his replacement.
Initial reports indicate that García may have suffered a nasal fracture and renewed deviation of his nasal septum, adding another layer of concern because the area has previously caused him problems.
Another Blow to the Same Area
The nature of García's latest injury makes the incident particularly unfortunate.
The defender previously suffered a broken nose last season and spent a period wearing a protective mask while recovering.
This time, the injury occurred in an entirely accidental collision with his own teammate.
García was visibly affected by the incident and subsequently requested to come off, with Koundé taking his place in Barcelona's defensive structure.
There was no suggestion of deliberate contact from Rodri.
It was simply an unfortunate moment during a set piece that left Barcelona without one of their starting defenders before the half-hour mark.
Champions League Absence Was Already Confirmed
Interestingly, García was already certain to miss Barcelona's upcoming Champions League opener against Feyenoord.
The defender is suspended for Wednesday's European fixture following the red card he received against Atlético Madrid last season.
That means the immediate European impact of the injury will be limited.
However, the bigger question is whether García will be fit enough to return for Barcelona's next LaLiga fixture against Levante.
Early reporting suggests the club could potentially manage his recovery with facial protection if he is cleared to play.
Barcelona will nevertheless wait for a full medical assessment before determining the extent of the problem and his expected recovery time.
Koundé Immediately Steps Into the Breach
García's departure handed Koundé an unexpected opportunity.
The French defender replaced him during the first half and could now be required to take on greater responsibility while García recovers.
That could become particularly important with Barcelona entering their Champions League campaign.
Koundé has found himself competing for minutes this season, with García having been preferred in the right-back role during the early stages of the campaign.
The injury could therefore alter the defensive picture at an inconvenient moment for Hansi Flick.
Barcelona Cannot Afford Another Defensive Problem
The timing will concern Flick even if García's absence ultimately proves short-term.
Barcelona have already been managing injuries within their squad, while the Champions League schedule is about to add another demanding competition to an already busy campaign.
García had also been named among Barcelona's five captains for the 2026/27 season, underlining his growing importance within Flick's squad.
His development has made him increasingly useful because of his ability to operate in different defensive positions.
Losing that versatility, even temporarily, gives Flick another selection issue to solve.
The Waiting Game Begins
For now, the priority is establishing exactly how serious García's latest nasal injury is.
The initial reports are concerning, particularly given his previous history with the same area, but there has been no indication yet of a lengthy absence.
Barcelona will therefore hope that the damage is manageable and that García can return quickly once medically cleared.
What started as an unfortunate collision with a teammate has suddenly created another defensive question for Flick.
And with the Champions League beginning this week, Barcelona will be hoping their latest injury concern proves to be a short-lived one.
Fan Debate
⚽ Goal: Eric García had every right to come off after taking another heavy blow to his nose.
🔥 Fire: Barcelona cannot afford to lose another important defender for an extended period.
😲 Shock: García suffered the injury in an accidental collision with his own teammate Rodri.
👍 Like: Jules Koundé stepped in immediately and gives Flick another experienced defensive option.
💬 Comment: Should Barcelona consider using a protective mask for García when he returns?
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