Eric Garcia talks Lewandowski, Asensio, Pique, Ferran, Zubimendi, Busquets, Luis Enrique

Speaking in a press conference ahead of Spain’s UEFA Nations League fixtures later this week (h/t SPORT), Barcelona defender Eric Garcia spoke about his club teammates Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres while also addressing Marco Asensio’s links to the Catalans.

The 21-year-old defender has made a solid start to the new season after enduring a tricky debut campaign last term. He had faced criticism from several sections at the time, but insisted that he never let it affect his game.

“No, not really. Unfortunately, last season I had to get used to them. I understood what this is about and what I have to do: listen to those who are always with you. Especially the coaches, who are the ones who know more,” he said.

Talking about Lewandowski, the centre-back said: “He is the star of Poland, a great player. I hope that if we face him during the World Cup, he will not have his best day.”

On the recent transfer rumours linking Real Madrid winger Asensio to Barcelona, Garcia stated: “Marco is a great footballer. He has a contract with Madrid and I can’t tell you more. It’s a pleasure to enjoy him here in the national team.”

When asked if he had joked with the winger about moving to Camp Nou, Eric said: “If we had to laugh about all the rumours that come out, we wouldn’t stop. They are things that come out and stay there.”

The ex-Manchester City ace also commented on the criticism that Ferran Torres has drawn since arriving at Barça, saying:

“Unfortunately, sometimes we footballers have to get used to criticism. Ferran Torres has shown what a great player he is. His numbers are spectacular. There are times when the ball doesn’t go in, but I see him well. When you work, things just work out.”

On the competition for places at Barcelona, he added: “At Barça, there are five central defenders at a very high level. Ronald, Koundé, Andreas, Piqué… Competition is important. It makes you pay more attention to small details to convince the coach.”

Giving his take on Gerard Pique’s situation at the club and his lack of minutes this season, the centre-half stated:  

“Gerard has some qualities that he has shown in the last 10-15 years. He is one of the best central defenders I have seen, he is top in the world. I learn from him every day. I am sure that when he has minutes he will show the great centre-back he is.”

Of late, Barcelona are being linked with Martin Zubimendi as the long-term replacement for captain Sergio Busquets. Garcia was asked for his opinion on the possibility of that transfer, to which he replied:

“You have to be careful with comparisons. Busquets is the best midfielder I’ve ever seen and Martin is starting. I shared the Olympic Games in Japan with him and he surprised me. But I repeat what I said before: he’s a Real Sociedad player and he has a contract there.”

Garcia also hailed the importance of Spain national team manager Luis Enrique in his career, saying: “I have always said that I am very grateful to Luis Enrique. It was not easy for him, for sure. I feel grateful, with confidence.

“The things he asks of me are very similar to what I do in the Barça. Every time I enter the field I try to give him back the confidence he has given me.”

“At no time can we relax. All footballers want to play. The fact that the coach trusts you even if you don’t have as many minutes reinforces you and gives you confidence, but when you come here you have to give it back,” he added.