During a training camp in Spain, Eric Garcia gave an exclusive interview to Marca. In the third part of the interview (divided into three parts due to its length), he discusses his experience winning the World Cup.

You're still very young, but you've already experienced so much. If anyone knows what you've been through, it's Santi Denia, and now you'll face him. Have you already spoken to him?

Santi has always been a very important coach for me. From a young age, he trusted me greatly, even bringing me up to youth teams above my age group.

I always say that I'm very grateful for everything he taught me. He taught me a lot, and we've always stayed in touch because he's someone I really respect.

Do you know what he said to us before the final? He said he sees you as a coach.

He's always said that to me.

He said, "Eric is not someone who just follows instructions; if he sees something wrong, he will speak up."

Yes, Santi and I have indeed spoken about football topics, and yes, I think I will definitely be a coach or sporting director in the future. Although I hope to continue playing for a few more years.

Now Mourinho is back in LaLiga. You were only 11 years old when he first arrived. What do you think? Do you think the tension between Real Madrid and Barcelona will return? Will Mourinho bring back the old fire, or is everything more calm now? We're all a bit more mature.

Yes, but I think there will always be something special between Barcelona and Real Madrid. That's why I think this is the greatest match in the world. I was still very young back then and didn't experience those classic matches, but I've always thought matches like that are very interesting to watch.

Who will win the Ballon d'Or?

In my opinion, Yamal should win it, or any Spanish player, but for this year, I think it's Yamal.

What's it like for a fullback to play behind Yamal?

He makes everything easier, and it's enjoyable watching him play.

What would you say to those who think Yamal doesn't contribute much defensively?

I think he's very involved this year and very helpful. Our start to the league is no accident. The attackers help us a lot, especially with the pressing we want to do; they're very important. And that's already showing.

What do you think about Raphinha not making the 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist?

Pedri isn't on it either. What can I say? But the good thing about football is that if you're already motivated, things like this sometimes make you want to prove yourself even more. I think Raphinha's start to the season speaks for itself. We won't say anything more. For us, it's about him continuing to play and maintaining his current form.

Are you aware of how well Barcelona is playing right now? Can you feel it on the pitch?

Yes, yes, there are moments in matches that amaze us all. We're very aware of our level because we see it in training. But it's true that we're playing very well right now. And it's also true that the season has just started, and there's still a long way to go. But I think if we can maintain this consistency throughout the season, we'll achieve great things.

Can you reach the level of Guardiola's Barcelona? Can you get there?

I think, despite the similarities, we play differently. Their control of the game was complete and absolute. We're like that in many phases too, but for us, pressing is very important. Applying pressure immediately after losing the ball, constantly pressing the opponent, suffocating them, and always keeping the defensive line high. So in that regard, we're a bit different from them.

Are you disappointed that Barcelona didn't give a tribute to the World Champions at Camp Nou?

The club is very proud of everything we accomplished that year, and they explained that to us. That's it.

What are you like in your personal life?

Well, very calm. Just a young guy who watches football, plays video games with friends, trains, and that's it.

You rarely lose, but when you do, how does it feel?

I get very angry, yes. I have a quick temper.

Diterjemahkan oleh AI.

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