Hansi Flick limits Eric Garcia to 30 minutes before Barcelona’s meeting with Atletico Madrid

Hansi Flick has revealed that Eric Garcia can play for no more than 30 minutes when Barcelona face Atletico Madrid, with the defender left on the bench for the La Liga leaders’ meeting with the side in second place.

The Barcelona manager said Garcia’s incomplete fitness and his confidence in Brian Farinas were the reasons behind the decision to name the player among the substitutes.

“It is both things together,” Flick said before the match. “Brian has played well and is going through an excellent period, as is Lamine Yamal in that area, and things are going very well.

“We have to manage Eric’s minutes. I am happy that he is back in the squad, but he cannot play for more than 30 minutes.”

Flick also explained his decision to select Mark Bernal instead of Frenkie de Jong to cover for the absence of Rodri. The German praised the young midfielder’s performances throughout the season and said he had earned his starting opportunity.

“Mark Bernal has done a great job this season,” said Flick. “In every match he has played, he has performed well, and I am very happy with him.”

The Barcelona boss expects the previous meetings between the teams to offer useful insight, but insisted that the latest contest must be approached as a fresh challenge. He called on his players to show confidence and quality from the opening minute.

The fixture brings together the top two teams in the league, with Barcelona starting as leaders and Atletico Madrid occupying second place. Flick said his team’s objective was clear: to turn their confidence into a victory.

“I want to see the team show its quality and strength,” he said. “We know it is not easy to play here, because Atletico fight, and we have to fight as well.

“What matters is that we show our ability with the ball, continually try to create chances, and move both the opponent and the ball.”

Flick’s comments underline the cautious approach being taken with Garcia, who has returned to the squad but is not yet ready for a full match. At the same time, the manager has rewarded Farinas’ recent form and backed Bernal after a series of encouraging displays.

The accompanying La Liga fixture information is dated 22 November 2026 and lists Barcelona, Villarreal, Getafe and Atletico Madrid.