Eric Garcia withdraws from Spain squad with knee injury as Robin Le Normand steps in

Barcelona defender Eric Garcia has withdrawn from the Spain national team squad after suffering a knee injury, the Spanish Football Federation has confirmed.

Head coach Luis de la Fuente has called up Atletico Madrid centre-back Robin Le Normand to replace the 25-year-old for the remainder of their UEFA Nations League group-stage campaign.

Garcia did not feature in Spain's dramatic victory against England in their Nations League opener, with Aymeric Laporte and Garcia's Barcelona team-mate Pau Cubarsi starting in central defence at Wembley Stadium.

The Spanish Football Federation released a statement outlining the decision: "Atletico Madrid player Robin Le Normand replaces Eric Garcia in the Spanish national team camp, which is playing in the UEFA Nations League group stage. The Barcelona centre-back felt some discomfort in his left knee and after the tests carried out, it has been decided to withdraw him from the squad due to the proximity of the upcoming international matches, thus avoiding any risk and preserving the player's health."

Key Figure for Barcelona

The setback comes during an impressive domestic run for Garcia, who has been an integral figure for Hansi Flick's Barcelona side this season. The defender has made six appearances across eight matches, leading all Barcelona defenders in tackles won (10) while also ranking third in duels won (21) and completed passes (393), alongside tallying 16 clearances.

Following their victory in London, Spain are scheduled to host Croatia and Czechia before traveling for a return clash against Croatia. La Roja remain in formidable form, extending their unbeaten streak to 39 matches in all competitions (30 wins, 9 draws)—the longest active run by any European national team.