Barcelona started their preparations for the 2025-26 season without Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who will soon undergo surgery with a recurring back problem. But even though he is not included in the team for the tour through Japan and South Korea, the 33-year-old is still the city's conversation.
There has been a lot of speculation around Ter Stegen's position as a club captain. Barcelona officials want him to be stripped of the role, and the decision about this will be made by his teammates, with a vote to take place just before the start of the new La Liga season in three weeks.
Speaking after Barcelona's 3-1 victory over Vissel Kobe on Sunday, defender Eric Garcia was asked to give his opinion on this (via MD).
“It is a problem that the coach treats. I suppose when we return to Barcelona, the coach will talk about it. Last year it voted, this year I don't know what it will be like, so we will wait to come back and see.”
Eric spoke about the match against Vissel Kobe, who was not in ideal conditions for Barcelona because of their late arrival in Japan. He also discussed his role as right back, where he played against the J-League side.
“I have a little jet lag. It was a difficult game because of the humidity and we had little time since we landed.
“I will help as much as possible where Flick needs me. I have already played in Girona (right back), and I am available where the coach needs me.”
Eric is expected to be an important player for Barcelona during the 2025-26 season, and in the coming months there is hope that he will sign a new contract, with his current deal that will expire in June.