Eric Garcia opens up on his exit from Barcelona: “It was my turn to play and enjoy”

On-loan Barcelona defender Eric Garcia has said that he spoke to Oriol Romeu before deciding to join Girona on a season-long loan this summer.

With opportunities limited at Barcelona, Garcia consulted with Xavi before moving to Girona during the final days of the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old made his debut for the new team against Granada, occupying the centre-back role alongside Daley Blind in a 4-2 win.

The former Manchester City defender revealed that he spoke to Romeu before the transfer. Interestingly enough, the former Southampton defender was taking the other route, joining the Blaugrana club after spending just one season with Girona.

“I spoke with Oriol Romeu and he spoke very well about Girona,” said Garcia as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. 

“Regarding the qualifications, we all know that we would like to finish in those positions and we have to take advantage of the moment we are in, but we also have to be aware that in a season there are always ups and downs,” he added.

Girona was an attractive avenue

Speaking about why he chose Girona as his next destination, he explained that this was an attractive option where he would be able to get more minutes in his tank.

“I have always been lucky enough to play in teams with a similar style of play and I already told the coach that I would help in any way he could because that is the way I like to play.

“One of the reasons [why I joined Girona] is to be able to add minutes. It is important for me to have continuity and the end of last season was difficult for me. I think Girona is the best opportunity I had,” he said.

Leaving Barça was difficult

The defender added that leaving Barcelona was a difficult decision to make, although it was for the betterment of everyone involved.

“Yes, it costs. It was my third season there and it is not easy, but everyone also has to think about their case and it was my turn to play and enjoy. That’s why I made that decision,” he admitted