Barcelona’s sports management has opted not to make any new acquisitions in the right-back position this summer.  Jules Kounde is likely to start as the clear first choice, with Eric Garcia developing as a solid backup.

Eric Garcia, a youth academy product, took advantage of Kounde’s injury absences, impressing sufficiently to change the club’s initial plans.  There had been months of discussion about reinforcing this position, but Eric’s performance changed the picture.  He has developed into a crucial utility player for coach Flick this season.

Eric initially wanted to return to Girona, but his game-winning goal against Benfica in Lisbon changed his plans.  He has played in a variety of positions, beginning as a defensive midfielder and progressing to right back before being given opportunities as a center-back, his preferred position.  Flick firmly lobbied for him to stay at Barcelona, and the decision has paid off this season.

 Meanwhile, Hector Fort remains the third option in the rotation.  His situation is similar to that of Gerard Martin: if a large offer emerges, the club may contemplate letting them go.  However, any departure would not result in a new signing to replace them, demonstrating the club’s continuous policy of keeping a lean squad and promoting talent from within.

Fort presently intends to stay and compete for a spot on the first squad as long as there is even a slim opportunity.  Notably, he turned rejected a formal offer from Ajax during the previous winter transfer window, demonstrating his determination to break through at the Spotify Camp Nou.  His clear objective is to make his debut in front of his home fans next season.