Eric Garcia playing against Athletic despite learning of death of his grandfather

It’s a sad day for Eric Garcia and his family. The defender learned of the death of his maternal grandfather, Joan Martret, at 88 years old. He was closely linked to the world of football in Catalan town Martorell, where the family lived.

Despite finding out the bad news, Eric Garcia wanted to play against Athletic Bilbao on Saturday night. He started alongside Gerard Pique in defence.

“Joan Martret (Martorell, 1933) died at 88 years old and leaves Martorell football an orphan after having been president of the Barcelona fan club of Martorell and a player and coach for local teams,” said the Martorell council in a statement. 

“He was also the grandfather of Eric Garcia, who returned to Barcelona this season and he was able to enjoy his return home.”