Barcelona centre-back Eric García left the pitch late in the 3-3 draw against Club Brugge after a clash of heads with Romeo Vermant. Overnight tests confirmed a partial fracture of the nasal bones, and the medical staff will decide if he plays soon with a protective mask or rests until after the international break.
What happened
García was substituted near full time with heavy bleeding after the aerial duel. Right after the match he told Movistar, “I think he broke my nose.” He also noted that Brugge created danger on the counter, that Barça lost the ball in risky zones, and that the referee could have allowed the final corner given the stoppages.
Medical update
Tests at a medical centre confirmed a nasal fracture. The plan being discussed is a protective mask for a quick return, or short rest to remove risk before the break.
There is optimism that Andreas Christensen can return from a calf issue for Sunday. If that happens, Hansi Flick will be able to avoid rushing García. Ronald Araújo and Pau Cubarsí would then be the likely pairing.
