Eric Garcia vs Kounde: Flick opens an unexpected battle for Barcelona's right-back spot

FC Barcelona

The competition for FC Barcelona's right-back spot promises to be one of the main points of focus in the coming weeks. Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde are the leading candidates, although the first signs from Hansi Flick seem to favor the player from Martorell.

According to SPORT, Eric Garcia has been working as a right-back since his arrival for pre-season and the initial intention of the German coach would be to use him as a starter in that position.

This does not seem like a one-off test. Eric earned Flick's trust last season thanks to his consistency and his ability to operate in different defensive roles.

Eric Garcia ended up moving ahead of Kounde

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The shift in hierarchy began to be noticeable during the final stretch of last campaign. Eric was racking up minutes at right-back while Kounde went through a more uneven spell.

In the 2025/26 season, Eric played 51 matches and started 47, operating as a centre-back, right-back, defensive midfielder and even left-back.

His big advantage is offering what Flick is looking for: reliability, tactical understanding, good ball progression and the ability to change the shape during the match.

And what happens now with Kounde?

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The latest reports suggest that Kounde wants to find out exactly what his role will be during the 2026/27 season and which position Flick plans to use him in.

One scenario has Eric Garcia as right-back and Kounde regaining minutes as a centre-back, the position where he spent much of his career before settling on the right side of Barcelona.

Both players' versatility also means Flick can swap their positions even within the same match.

Two very different profiles

Kounde offers more power, speed and the ability to defend large spaces. Against quick wingers or in more open games, the Frenchman continues to have strong arguments.

Eric, on the other hand, seems to fit particularly well when Barcelona want to dominate possession. His training as a centre-back and defensive midfielder allows him to play inside, link up and help with the build-up.

Another important factor comes into play: Lamine Yamal. With the winger occupying the flank, Flick may prefer a full-back who can provide balance and protect his movements. In that scenario, Eric Garcia could have the edge.

Kounde's starting spot no longer seems untouchable

A few seasons ago it would have been difficult to imagine a real debate for the right-back position. Kounde had made that role his usual home, but the situation has changed.

Eric has taken advantage of practically every opportunity and finished last campaign as one of Flick's most reliable players. That does not mean Kounde will be a substitute: his physical power, experience and defensive ability remain very important assets.

But the question has changed. It is no longer only about knowing when to rest Kounde so that Eric can play. Now there is a real battle for the spot.

Our bet: Eric starts out ahead

If we had to put our money on it before the official start of the season, our bet would be Eric Garcia.

Right now, we would place the battle at 60-40 in favor of the Spaniard. Flick used him an awful lot last season, he responded as a right-back, and now he is again working specifically in that position.

For fantasy users, there is also an interesting detail: Eric could initially offer a much more attractive value-for-money ratio if the markets have not yet priced in this possible shift in the pecking order.

Kounde will still get plenty of minutes and both can alternate positions during the season, but based on the signs Flick has left over the past few months, Eric Garcia seems to be half a step ahead right now.