Eric Garcia: 'Sooner we win the league the better'
Eric Garcia was the main protagonist at the presentation of the 21st edition of "Relats Solidaris de l’Esport" (Solidarity Sports Stories), held this Monday 20 April at the Antiga Fàbrica Estrella Damm. The event took place just three days before Sant Jordi's Day and was attended by FC Barcelona president Rafa Yuste and the director of the FC Barcelona Foundation, Marta Segú, who accompanied the defender at an event that brings together sport, culture and solidarity.
The Barça centre‑back appeared with a smile in front of the attendees and the sports journalists who collaborate on the project, highlighting the importance of the cause: "It's a pleasure to be the patron of this edition. We are lucky to be able to help other people, and I hope we can sell as many books as possible to raise funds."
On this occasion, the beneficiary organisation is the AVAN Foundation, a non‑profit entity that supports people with neurological conditions.
Focus on La Liga
On the sporting front, the Barça defender spoke about the final stretch of the season, with the league as the only remaining goal. "Now we have to focus on LaLiga, and the sooner we can seal it, the better" he said. "We want to win the it as soon as possible."
European elimination was "a tough blow for all of us. There were moments in the match when we thought we had it and could come back."
He also played down the refereeing decisions: "Sometimes they go your way, sometimes they don't. I can't put all the blame on the referees. We had 180 minutes to do the job and we didn't do it."
Despite the disappointment, Eric values the work done: "We are doing things very well. Getting knocked out of the Champions League and the Copa del Rey is hard, it hurts because of the way it happened, but it doesn't take away from the season we're having ... We are a young team, with some experienced players. I always try to help as much as I can. No one will beat us in attitude."
Furthermore, with the World Cup on the horizon, the defender did not hide his personal ambition: "All players know it's special. I try to do my part and give my best in every match; if the national coach thinks he should call me up, I'll be delighted."
Solidarity
Beyond the pitch, Eric Garcia was acting as patron of an initiative that is celebrating its 21st edition: "It's a pleasure to be the patron. We are lucky to be able to help other people" he said.
"There is a case in my family, so being able to help is especially meaningful. When the opportunity arose, I didn't hesitate."
Along the same lines, Rafa Yuste highlighted the symbolism of the event. "With this book we connect sport, literature and solidarity" he said. "We must all bring values back to life."
A new edition of "Relats Solidaris de l’Esport" that, this year, aims to take advantage of the momentum of Sant Jordi to help make the world a better place.
