Luis de la Fuente has provided updates on two Barcelona players ahead of Spain’s meeting with Croatia, addressing Eric Garcia’s early departure from the international camp while also discussing Fermin Lopez’s growing role with the national team.
Garcia was initially included in Spain’s plans but returned to Barcelona after experiencing knee discomfort during the warm-up before the clash with England.
Spain’s medical staff decided against taking unnecessary risks with the defender during the international break.
The decision came after the issue was assessed as relatively minor, with no indication that Garcia had suffered a significant injury.
He is consequently expected to be available for Barcelona’s next La Liga fixture against Getafe on October 10.
Spain chose caution with Eric Garcia
Eric Garcia was withdrawn from the Spanish national team camp. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Garcia’s withdrawal could have been viewed as a concern for Barcelona, particularly given his importance as one of the squad’s more versatile defensive options.
De la Fuente, though, made clear that the decision was based on the circumstances rather than the seriousness of the problem.
“If we’d been in the knockout stages, he would have stayed.
“We’d all have taken that risk. He wouldn’t have been available for tomorrow’s match, and as for the third match, he might or might not have been.
“It wasn’t worth taking that risk. Under no circumstances were we going to seek a confrontation with the player.”
Fermin Lopez pushing for Spain breakthrough
Fermin Lopez is expected to start against Croatia. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
While Garcia’s situation centred on fitness, De la Fuente also had positive news to announce about another Barcelona player.
Fermin Lopez has already accumulated seven appearances for Spain but is yet to start a competitive international match.
That could change against Croatia, with the Barcelona midfielder increasingly making a case for a more prominent role.
De la Fuente was particularly enthusiastic when asked about the 23-year-old’s current form and what he can contribute to Spain.
“He’s in fantastic form, just like some of his teammates. He’s versatile. He brings us energy, vitality, intensity, talent, class… We need that sort of player,” he concluded.
Source: MARCA
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