It could not have been more perfect. FC Barcelona marked their homecoming to the new Spotify Camp Nou with a spectacular performance and victory, thrashing Athletic Club 4-0 earlier today.
Goals from Robert Lewandowski and Fermin Lopez, along with a Ferran Torres double sealed a triumphant victory for the Blaugrana on their return home.
Eric Garcia reigns supreme
Almost everyone on the pitch performed exceptionally, but one of the most standout players on the evening happened to be Eric Garcia.
Deployed in a makeshift role as a defensive midfielder, the 24-year-old Spaniard delivered a brilliant all-round display, one that earned him the first ovation at the new Spotify Camp Nou, reports Mundo Deportivo.
He did not score and he did not assist, but Eric was decisive in Barça’s win against Athletic Club.
Against Athletic, the versatile defender was decisive in Lewandowski’s first goal after winning the ball back before Lamine provided the assist. He was crucial again when he stole the ball in midfield before Fermin made it 3-0.
‼️The Camp Nou crowd gave a standing ovation to Eric García as he left the pitch.
WELL DESERVED! 👏 pic.twitter.com/RebkhpaVzU
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) November 22, 2025
This is why, in the 74th minute, when Flick substituted him, the stands rose to their feet and applauded the Barça player while chanting “Eric, Eric, Eric”. It was an unforgettable moment for the supporters and for the player.
Reliable and trustworthy
Explaining his decision to start Eric in midfield before the game, manager Hansi Flick said:
“Araujo and Christensen were tired from their international matches, and with De Jong suspended, I needed a player who could fill De Jong’s role, and that’s why I chose Eric.”
After ending the last season in excellent form, Eric has become the most valued piece for the German coach this season.
The Spaniard is not only the player with the most minutes under Flick so far this term, but he is also Barça’s wildcard. Whether he plays as centre-back on either side, full-back on the right or left, or as pivot as he did today, he delivers.