Barcelona Set to Feature New Starting Right-Back, Kounde's Future Increasingly Uncertain

Coach Hansi Flick has decided to deploy Eric Garcia at right-back, a move hinted at after the decisive 'El Clásico' that sealed the La Liga title. The defender has rejoined Barcelona training, receiving a clear indication of the role Flick envisions for him. Garcia reported back to the squad on August 9th, three days ahead of schedule following Spain's World Cup triumph, and immediately began working as a right-back in his initial sessions.

This detail corroborates earlier reports from the end of last season regarding the German specialist's intention to feature the Martorell-born player at right-back as a key defensive innovation for the upcoming season. This shift could also see him join the new group of captains, following the loan departures of Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araújo.

His statistics further explain the coach's confidence in this positional change. Eric has averaged 83 touches per game with a 92% pass accuracy, achieving 93% success in his own half and 91% in the opposition's. Additionally, he averages 1.4 interceptions, 3.3 tackles, and 2.3 clearances per match. These figures demonstrate his contribution extends far beyond purely defensive duties. His ability to progress the ball has become a primary reason for his definitive move to the right flank. There, he will support an area where Barça, with Rodri as the holding midfielder, aims to dominate play from Cubarsí's build-up, with Lamine Yamal providing the finishing touch.

Eric's Positional Breakdown for the 2025/26 Season: Centre-back: 26 matches Defensive Midfielder: 13 matches Right-back: 11 matches Left-back: 1 match Total: 51 matches

While Eric is set to start as the first-choice right-back, his versatility remains one of his greatest assets. Flick has found in him a player capable of adapting to various needs, and the numbers reflect the extent of his trust: he played 51 matches in the 2025/26 season, more than any other Barcelona player, and started the most games with 47. Last season, he featured as a centre-back (26), defensive midfielder (13), and even as an option at right-back (11) and left-back (1), performing convincingly in all positions.

This new reality for Eric Garcia directly impacts Jules Kounde. The Frenchman has transitioned from a central figure in Flick's plans to a player whose starting spot is now uncertain. The coach will need to decide how to organize his defense, but Eric appears to be the priority choice for right-back at the start of the season. Kounde, who renewed his contract until 2030 last August, aims to remain at Barcelona despite interest from the Premier League. Barcelona is aware they won't force his sale, but would consider a significant offer if the player decides to seek a change of scenery. Arsenal, in need of a player capable of operating as both a right-back and a centre-back, is the club showing the most interest in the Frenchman's services.