Ace pivot star's injury return gets delayed for FC Barcelona

Having won 11 out of 12 La Liga matchdays, establishing an impressive 9-point lead at the tabletop La Liga position, FC Barcelona's performances have been spectacular this season. However, while the club's on-the-field displays have exceeded the expectations of even the club fans, their injury issues continue to intrigue.

Ace pivot star's injury return gets delayed for FC Barcelona

Although certainly, the return of ace midfield trio Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, and Gavi did prove to be vital in getting Barca closer to their full-strength squad, the side still lacks the presence of some key players. On top of that, while the recoveries of most of their injured players feel to be going well, recent reports hint at a delay in the return of an ace pivot star.

Eric Garcia, who has been one of the crucial components in the club's turbulent times this season, might have a delayed return for his muscle discomfort issues. Although initially sidelined from starting against Sevilla, the versatile star now faces an uncertain return, even though his progress had shown confidence of a return soon.

As per recent reports from journalist Laia Tudel, Eric García has pubalgia and must rest until the discomfort is gone. Thus, even though earlier updates had indicated a return soon, with him having trained normally with the squad, the pivot star's injury return seems a bit complicated now.

While certainly, from FC Barcelona's perspective, this falls against their interest in having all the options available for squad strength, the recent update feels much more difficult for Eric Garcia. Not only has the delayed return kept him away from crucial game minutes, but it could prove detrimental for him in earning his place back in the starting XI.

Given Barca's current midfield scenario, with prodigy stars Casado and Pedri performing perfectly and Flick being forced to bench big names like de Jong and Gavi, Eric's return to the XI feels much more complicated now. Not to forget, in the first place, Eric Garcia had found the chance in the XI due to key injuries within the squad, and with most of them having returned now, it could be difficult for him to convince manager Flick for a role again. Thus, while Barca fans would hope for his early return, his role remains to be seen going further.