‘If we have to argue, we argue’ – Eric Garcia talks ‘heated’ moments with Raphinha at Barcelona

Barcelona defender Eric Garcia has lifted the lid on the squad’s internal dynamics, revealing that frank exchanges—sometimes with a sharp edge—are encouraged inside the dressing room as the club navigates a pivotal stretch of the season.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Garcia said the trust among teammates allows for open confrontation when standards slip. “Raphinha, for example, who gets quite heated—if we ever have to argue, we argue. It won’t escalate; we’ll still love each other,” the centre-back explained. “I think it’s positive that we can tell each other things as they are.”

The candid comments come after back-to-back defeats to Atlético Madrid and Girona triggered a round of clear-the-air talks. Manager Hansi Flick has urged players to voice observations that staff might miss, fostering an environment where honesty is viewed as a performance tool. “The manager asks us to communicate, to talk things through, to share how we feel and what we see on the pitch,” Garcia added. “He wants us to be honest with ourselves.”

Barça responded to the mini-crisis by defeating Levante and now turn their attention to Saturday’s league meeting with Villarreal. Garcia believes the recent setbacks could yet prove valuable: “This week has been a time for talking and seeing how we can improve, because we’re entering a very important stretch: the Champions League, La Liga, the second leg of the Copa del Rey… Sometimes these things are good for you.”