Eric Garcia set to wear protective mask again after Barcelona injury scare

Barcelona defender Eric Garcia is expected to return against Levante on Sunday after initial medical tests ruled out a broken nose suffered during the 1-0 win over Valencia.

Garcia was forced off during Sunday’s match after colliding with Rodri during a corner. The centre-back was unable to continue and was replaced by Jules Kounde, with the Barcelona player appearing visibly uncomfortable as he left the pitch.

The injury initially raised concerns because Garcia endured a similar problem last season. He fractured his nose and was required to wear a protective mask for several matches.

However, Barcelona were relieved by the results of the first examinations, according to Spanish newspaper Sport. The tests found no fracture or serious injury, allowing the 25-year-old defender to continue training with the squad.

Garcia trained at Barcelona’s training ground on Monday wearing a mask and is expected to be available for the visit to Levante next Sunday. The mask is intended to protect his nose from further damage, as it did during the previous campaign.

The versatile Spain international is suspended for Barcelona’s opening Champions League match against Feyenoord, meaning he will not be involved in the European fixture at Camp Nou. His expected return against Levante would therefore come in the club’s next domestic match.

Garcia has begun the season as one of Hansi Flick’s preferred options at right-back. He started three of Barcelona’s first four matches, ahead of Kounde in that position, while also providing cover at centre-back.

His latest injury occurred when he challenged Rodri in the air during a corner for Flick’s side. Garcia left the field immediately, and the initial signs appeared concerning before the medical assessment provided more positive news.

The Barcelona academy graduate will now continue to use protective headgear while recovering. The club’s medical findings mean Flick should be able to call upon him against Levante, provided there are no further problems during the week.

Garcia will nevertheless miss Barcelona’s first Champions League game of the campaign because of a suspension carried over from the second leg of last season’s quarter-final against Atletico Madrid.

He was sent off in that match after bringing down Sorloth, who was through on goal and facing Juan Garcia. As a result, he will serve his suspension when Barcelona host Feyenoord at Camp Nou.