**Legend Lionel Messi makes an unexpected statement and praises a Barcelona star who completely changed the team’s dynamics in the last El Clasico!**
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On an unforgettable night at the Montjuïc Stadium, Barcelona clinched a dramatic La Liga El Clasico victory over their arch-rivals Real Madrid with a score of 4-3. The match reignited the Catalan team’s title hopes and intensified the battle for the top spot. While the media buzzed over the stellar performances of players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, the surprise came from an entirely different direction—none other than the legend Lionel Messi himself.
In unexpected remarks, Messi singled out defender **Eric García** for praise, describing him as one of the key game-changers for the team:
> “From the bench to being a star in major matches… this player changed everything for Barcelona, and Flick has used him with incredible intelligence.”
Eric García, who was on the verge of leaving the team in the winter transfer window, defied expectations after coach **Hansi Flick** placed his trust in him. García delivered standout performances, particularly in crucial games like the Champions League semi-final and the recent El Clasico. He even scored a vital goal against Inter Milan and contributed to six goals this season (4 scored, 2 assisted).
Messi concluded his remarks with a clear appeal to the club’s management:
> “Renew his contract immediately! This star doesn’t get the recognition he deserves, despite his phenomenal level every minute he plays.”
Thus, Eric García transforms from a benchwarmer into a pillar of Barcelona’s new project and, in Messi’s words, becomes the “surprise of the season”—as described by the greatest player ever to wear the Catalan jersey.