“I have to show that I am the same or better than the one who is performing”

Those who don’t play for a minute like to make it very difficult Luis Enrique. One of them is Eric Garcia (Martorell, 21 years old), one of the names that looks strong to debut in a world in the view of Japanese. Exactly, the Barcelona central defender has already played against the Japanese in the semifinal of Olympic Games in the summer of 2021, which they beat 1-0. Today, eight of those footballers are the base of the new Japan. His childhood friend is also one of them Take Kubo.

They reached the third game as leaders of the group of death. not a bad start

I think before it gets here we all agree to be in the situation we’re in, so in that sense I’m very happy.

[+] The complete interview with Eric Garcia can be found here

Although after the game against Germany, people left angry, not satisfied. It says a lot about the group’s ambition.

In the end we always want to win. It was a game where after 1-0, we controlled well and we even had the second goal. That they tie you up at the end, well, fuck. But he speaks well of the team, when he has a response after drawing a game.

A group, which is a pineapple. This is one of the keys to this choice

It has been seen for a long time. If this team has a characteristic, it is the group that we have created, the atmosphere that exists and that makes it noticeable later on the field when it comes to playing.

And also to those who don’t play. Everyone is always very close. You, at this moment, are not released. How are you?

Whether you play or not, what matters is the team. We all want to play, but the coach has to pick eleven players who he thinks will play the way he wants for that match. So the non-players have to help provide that extra push so that those on the field play as they are doing now.

Entry to eleven is very expensive

It has 26 players at a level that, as the coach always says, anyone can play. There is a very high level and we all have things that are very clear when we have to play. Yes, it is expensive.

In his position there is a lot of competition and Luis Enrique has also invented Rodri as a center back

It is very beautiful. He has an outlet on the ball and excellent positioning. I guess that’s what the coach is looking for. He and Ayme (Laporte) provide a very high level.

Now it’s time for Japan and the rounds are expected. is it your turn

I’m obviously ready. It’s our job when you’re not playing. Train to the maximum and if the coach decides that we should have a chance, make the most of it.

A replacement for Busquets is also being sought, including the national team. Xavi says you can be a great pivot. Do you see there?

It’s a position I’ve never played in, really. They really want to remove me from the middle position…

Let me ask you about the coach. What does Luis Enrique mean to you?

I always say that he gave me incredible trust and I have an obligation to return it. It’s not just me, it helps us all. He has a very clear idea of ​​playing which I think is very well known. It is a pleasure to have it.

What do you give non-gamers to plug in?

He is a coach who is very close to the player who transmits what he sees and how he sees it. That’s a lot for the player. If you don’t have a chance in the games you have to show that you are equal or better than the player. If you don’t give your all in training, he’ll see that you’re not ready.

Let’s talk about Japan. Because he came with an Olympic team base. Eight players, specifically. You faced them in the semifinals in 2021

This is a very complete team, with players of great individual talent as many play in Europe. In Germany, in Spain Take plays… They are very organized and physically they never stop running. It will be a tough game.

It could be something like the semi that ended 1-0 with a goal from Asensio

We’ll try not to because that’s a very open game, with a lot of back and forth. That interests them and we hope to have more control over the game.

He will face a player he knows, a good friend like Take Kubo

He has started the season at Real and I think he has found a stability that maybe he hasn’t had in recent years. We’re revisiting the Take we saw as kids, already showing off in some amazing ways. And in the end, with this talent that he has, it shows.

Kubo left for Japan but after that you maintained the relationship. Did they talk about this game?

Not during the World Cup. We saw each other when we played against Real, but not now. We will talk

After the fight.

As children they were almost inseparable.

I remember that in the beginning he came many times with his family to my house. Obviously, he doesn’t speak much Spanish and so that they don’t feel that we are alone we make a very good relationship.

You are such a footballer. Are you following this World Cup?

Yes. Except for the matches played when we were training, I have seen them all.

I know you’re focused on Japan, but what do you think about your possible opponents in the round of 16?

messy I liked Morocco against Belgium. He is a very organized opponent, with a lot of individual talent, who can also play football very well. Obviously, Belgium or Croatia also have many individual classes and Canada also surprised me.

And as a centre-back, has anyone caught your eye in your position?

No, the truth is I managed to control them all. This is a World Cup where the best of every team is there and it shows.

This is a selection with a lot of culé. Do Barça and La Roja feed off each other?

The way the coach wants to play is very similar to Barça and in that aspect he can help more, yes.

You are focused on the national team, but what does it mean to leave the top team after the elimination of the Champions League?

It was very important. In the League we come from a very high path. The game against Osasuna was very difficult, playing with one less player, and it was a team victory.

On their return they have four competitions at stake. Are you forced to win?

Yes Yes. That is our goal.