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Eric Garcia says he is not affected by criticism that “is lacking respect” ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League showdown with Barcelona on Wednesday.
The Spain defender has come under fire for his performances in a 3-3 draw with Inter and the 3-1 Clasico loss at Real Madrid.
Garcia was dropped to the bench for a 3-0 LaLiga defeat of Villarreal before returning to the starting line-up in a 4-0 rout of Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou on Sunday.
Barca head coach Xavi backed the centre-back after the loss to Madrid, stating: “For me, Eric is a guarantee.”
The 21-year-old, who returned to Camp Nou after his Manchester City contract expired last year, says he is not bothered about harsh assessments of his credentials.
“Obviously I gave the penalty away against Madrid, and against Inter I could have been better,” Garcia said on the eve of the clash with Bundesliga champions Bayern.
“I am 21, I have room to improve. The criticism, which is lacking respect, does not concern me. I accept constructive criticism. I know when I play well and when I don’t. I have people around me that tell me.
“As for the rest, people can say what they want, but it does not affect me.”
Even a win over Group C leaders Bayern may not keep alive Barca’s chances of qualifying for the round of 16, with second-placed Inter sure to advance if they beat Viktoria Plzen.
