Hansi Flick singles out unlikely player for praise in Athletic Club win

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick specifically praised Eric Garcia after the defender put in an incredible shift at defensive midfield in the 4-0 win against Athletic Club. 

With Pedri injured and Frenkie de Jong suspended, Hansi Flick trusted the former Manchester City star to start at the base of midfield alongside two attacking midfielders in Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo. 

Still, Garcia interpreted the role to perfection, helping Barcelona keep their first clean sheet since September. 

Hence, after the match, Flick reserved praise for him, saying, “For a coach, having a player like Eric García is something exceptional. Eric is playing at an unbelievable level.”

As Pulse Sports reported, an incredible performance on both ends of the pitch helped Barcelona secure a 4-0 win against Athletic Club and move to level on points with Real Madrid.

Barcelona returned to the Camp Nou for the first time since May 2023 and made an occasion of it, beating old foes Athletic Club, thanks to a brace from Ferran Torres and goals from Robert Lewandowski and Fermin Lopez.

The LALIGA champions were sharp offensively and look more secure at the back than they have been in recent weeks, two key takeaways which must delight Blaugrana faithfuls ahead of midweek's UCL clash against Chelsea.