Key Takeaways:
- Eric Garcia is close to agreeing a long-term contract extension with Barcelona after rejecting an offer from Paris Saint-Germain
- Garcia has played a squad-high 1,285 minutes across 17 matches during the 2025-26 season, including 13 La Liga appearances and a goal
- The central defender is regarded as a key player by manager Hansi Flick, displaying versatility and strong leadership qualities
Contract Extension Nearing Completion amid PSG Interest
Barcelona defender Eric Garcia is on the verge of signing a new long-term contract, having opted to turn down a formal approach from current Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain. The 24-year-old, whose present agreement expires next summer, has enjoyed a standout campaign under manager Hansi Flick, featuring more than any other Barcelona player so far this season.
Negotiations between Garcia and the Catalan club have reached their final phase, with a deal now essentially agreed “in principle” following extensive talks. Barcelona reacted quickly to Garcia’s impressive displays by seeking to secure his long-term future in the squad.
🚨🎖| 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Barcelona have reached an AGREEMENT in principle with Eric Garcia for the renewal of his contract until 2030. [@mundodeportivo] #fcblive pic.twitter.com/XIZDf3ISLc
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) November 24, 2025
PSG, led by ex-Barcelona and Spain coach Luis Enrique, made a determined effort to sign the defender. Given Enrique’s familiarity with Garcia’s qualities from their time together with the Spanish national team, the French side had tabled an offer seeking to lure him to Paris. Nevertheless, Garcia elected to remain at his boyhood club, placing priority on Flick’s project rather than reuniting with his former national team manager.
PSG’s intervention reportedly affected Barcelona’s established schedule for contract renewals, which also involves Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal. However, sources indicate that Garcia has not wavered in his commitment to the Blaugrana.
Influence of Hansi Flick and Garcia’s Evolving Status
Garcia’s growing importance at Camp Nou comes after a shift in fortunes. Having spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Girona – a spell in which he helped them qualify for the Champions League – Garcia faced uncertainty over his Barcelona role. According to Mundo Deportivo, he even contemplated seeking another loan during the summer window to secure regular first-team football. Flick, however, intervened, persuading Garcia to remain and pledging a significant squad role for the campaign.
Flick’s trust has translated into considerable game time, with the club hierarchy now fully aware that the German coach “absolutely does not want to lose” the Spanish defender due to his consistency and adaptability. Garcia’s sense of belonging at Barcelona, reinforced by the presence of numerous former La Masia players, is an additional factor in his decision to reject PSG’s overtures and commit his future at the club. Having returned on a free transfer from Manchester City in the summer of 2021 after progressing through the ranks, Garcia now feels “completely happy” with his role and the dressing room environment.
Barcelona staff now view Garcia as a linchpin in the squad, with some regarding him as a possible future captain thanks to his leadership and integration within the club’s culture. Only the formal act of signing remains to finalise an agreement now described as a matter of scheduling.
Season Statistics and Versatility
Garcia’s contribution to Barcelona this season is highlighted by standout numbers. According to statistics for the 2025-26 campaign, he has appeared in 17 matches across all competitions, racking up 1,285 minutes on the pitch. Within La Liga, he has featured 13 times and found the net once. The defender has also started three out of four Champions League fixtures thus far.
| Season | Appearances (All Competitions) | Minutes Played | La Liga Appearances | La Liga Goals | Champions League Starts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | 17 | 1,285 | 13 | 1 | 3 |
Garcia’s main position is centre-back, although he has shown the ability to slot in at right-back or even as a defensive midfielder when required. Spanish media have consistently rated his displays as “a solid seven out of 10, no matter where he plays”, and most recently praised his outstanding performance against Athletic Club.
Next Steps for Club and Player
With a deal in principle now reached, the priority shifts to the formal signing process to finalise Garcia’s long-term stay and end any residual uncertainty regarding his future. As Barcelona head into a congested schedule before the winter break, Flick is set to continue relying heavily on Garcia’s endurance and flexibility, critical assets as the Catalan club seek to maintain momentum across La Liga and the Champions League in the months ahead.
