Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Eric García (footballer, born 2001)

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 18, 2026

How Eric García (footballer, born 2001) built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Eric García Martret is a Spanish professional footballer known for playing as a centre-back for both La Liga club Barcelona and the Spain national team. While primarily a centre-back, García also possesses the versatility to play as a full-back or defensive midfielder. Born in 2001, he represents a younger generation of Spanish footballers making their mark at both club and international levels.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2017: Joined Manchester City

In 2017, Eric García left La Masia, Barcelona's youth academy, to join Manchester City. During his initial season, he captained the under-18 team and participated in the UEFA Youth League with the under-19s.

December 2018: First Team Debut

On December 18, 2018, Eric García made his first-team debut for Manchester City in an EFL Cup quarter-final match against Leicester City. City won on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

September 2019: Premier League Debut

On September 21, 2019, Eric García made his Premier League debut for Manchester City, coming on as a substitute in an 8-0 victory against Watford.

2019: Played Full Games for City

In 2019, Eric García played two consecutive full games for Manchester City during the Christmas and New Year period, against Sheffield United and Everton, with City winning both matches.

August 2020: Rejected Contract Extension

In August 2020, Pep Guardiola announced that Eric García had rejected a contract extension with Manchester City, despite becoming a first-choice player.

August 2020: First Senior Call-Up

On August 20, 2020, Eric García received his first senior call-up for the Spanish national team for UEFA Nations League fixtures against Germany and Ukraine.

September 2020: Senior International Debut

On September 6, 2020, Eric García made his senior international debut for Spain against Ukraine, replacing Sergio Ramos.

May 2021: Included in UEFA Euro 2020 Squad

On May 24, 2021, Eric García was included in Spain's squad for UEFA Euro 2020. He was also part of the squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

June 2021: García Rejoined Barcelona

In June 2021, Eric García rejoined Barcelona on a free transfer after his contract with Manchester City expired.

June 2021: Signed with Barcelona

On June 1, 2021, Eric García agreed to sign for Barcelona on a free transfer with a five-year contract starting July 1, including a buyout clause.

August 2021: Competitive Match for Barcelona

On August 15, 2021, Eric García played his first competitive match for Barcelona in a 4-2 victory against Real Sociedad. On August 21, he received a red card in a match against Athletic Bilbao.

September 2023: Loaned to Girona

On September 1, 2023, Eric García was loaned to Girona for the 2023-24 season. On September 27, he scored his first goal for Girona, securing a win against Villarreal and granting the club the top spot in La Liga.

2024: Regular Member of FC Barcelona

After an impressive 2024-25 season under Hansi Flick, Eric García has been a regular member of FC Barcelona’s squad during the 2025-26 season, featuring consistently across all competitions.

January 2025: First Goal Since Rejoining Barcelona

On January 4, 2025, Eric García scored his first goal since returning to Barcelona in a Copa del Rey match against UD Barbastro. On January 21, he scored his first Champions League goal against Benfica.

May 2025: Champions League and El Clásico Goal

In May 2025, Eric García scored the first goal for Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan. Days later, he scored his first career El Clásico goal against Real Madrid.