The FC Barcelona defender Eric Garcia has had quite a memorable last year. During this time, he has made himself an indispensable part of Hansi Flick’s plans, and ended up winning La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup titles with the Blaugrana team last season. Over the summer, he played in and won the 2026 World Cup with Spain.
There is no doubt that these are very special achievements, that only a very select few players can enjoy in their careers. However, these achievements have not only brought glory to the player and his teams, but also to his hometown of Martorell. In view of these achievements, the Spanish town paid tribute to his work and awarded him a medal for sporting merit.
As [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20260917/1004228501/eric-garcia-homenajeado-martorell-suena-volver-champions.html) has reported, the Spanish defender also addressed the public on this occasion, and while talking about his World Cup triumph, also did not forget about Barcelona. Garcia was already dreaming of now winning another big trophy with the Blaugrana team, the UEFA Champions League:
**“I also see a lot of Barça shirts around here. Hopefully, next season we will meet again to celebrate many trophies, and hopefully the Champions League too.”**
**“The Champions League is everyone’s main objective. We have done things well over the last two years, but we fell short. This year, we have a great squad and, if we maintain this level, we can be up there. The Champions League is everyone’s dream.”**
Regarding the Ballon d’Or, the Barcelona defender was quite clear about who deserved it as [he once again named Lamine Yamal](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/eric-garcia-names-three-barcelona-stars-he-believes-should-be-on-ballon-dor-podium/):
**“He deserves it. We all say it because we genuinely feel that way. The things he does… I saw Messi, and now I see him… At his age, the difference he makes on the pitch, his quality is incredible. But I also don’t want to forget my teammates. Rodri already has one… (laughs).”**
While highlighting the importance of Wojciech Szczesny, Garcia had no qualms naming Joan Garcia as the best in the world:
**“He is someone with a lot of experience in football. Obviously, being the substitute is not easy. Joan is the best goalkeeper in the world.”**
Eric Garcia deserves all the recognition he is getting after such a memorable year. Hopefully, he will continue playing at this level for years to come, and enjoy more such successes in the coming years, both with Barcelona and Spain.