FC Barcelona News: 12 March 2026; Eric Garcia injury ruled out, Gavi set to return against Sevilla

Barcelona received a double fitness boost on Wednesday as medical tests confirmed that defender Eric Garcia has avoided a serious injury, while midfielder Gavi is poised to make his long-awaited return in Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Sevilla.

Garcia, who was forced off during Tuesday night’s 1-1 Champions League draw at Newcastle United, underwent scans in Barcelona on Wednesday morning. The results showed only a minor muscle strain, meaning the 24-year-old could yet be available for the Sevilla match depending on his response to treatment over the next 48 hours.

The news is equally encouraging for Gavi, who has not featured since undergoing meniscus surgery more than five months ago. Although coach Hansi Flick has yet to make a final decision, club sources say the 21-year-old has completed the last phase of his rehabilitation and is expected to be given a short cameo at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Tuesday’s stalemate at St James’ Park keeps Barça in a strong position ahead of the return leg. Lamine Yamal’s stoppage-time penalty cancelled out Newcastle’s opener and maintained the Blaugrana’s unbeaten run in European knockout ties when they have drawn the first leg away from home.

The trip to Tyneside also marked a milestone for academy product Xavi Espart, who became the latest La Masia graduate to debut under Flick. The 19-year-old winger entered the contest midway through the second half, continuing the club’s tradition of promoting home-grown talent.

Off the pitch, former president Josep Maria Bartomeu used an interview with Mundo Deportivo to defend his legacy ahead of Sunday’s club elections, urging socios to embrace “a generational change” in the boardroom.