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Hansi Flick hopes Joan García will be available for Saturday’s match
Barcelona's first-choice goalkeeper left the pitch at halftime with a knee issue, but early signs point to a quick return
FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick confirmed that goalkeeper Joan García is dealing with a knee problem but expressed optimism that the 25-year-old will be fit to play on Saturday. The update comes after García was substituted at halftime during Barcelona’s recent outing at Spotify Camp Nou, raising immediate concerns about the keeper’s availability for what shapes up as a pivotal fixture.
What happened and what’s next
The injury occurred during a match against Racing Santander on September 16, when García appeared to slip on the wet artificial surface while retrieving a ball. He twisted his ankle and did not return after the break.
Flick’s initial comments framed the substitution as cautious rather than panicked. The coach indicated he expects García to be available for Barcelona’s upcoming away trip to Sevilla on September 19.
Early assessments suggest the issue is a minor ankle sprain rather than anything structural. García is expected to undergo further medical evaluation, but the initial prognosis has been encouraging enough for Flick to sound genuinely hopeful.
García’s journey at Barcelona
Joan García, born on May 4, 2001, arrived at Barcelona in July 2025 after making his name at crosstown rivals Espanyol. His contract runs through 2031.
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In late September 2025, just months after his high-profile transfer, García underwent meniscus surgery on his left knee. That procedure sidelined him for roughly four to six weeks.
Flick’s public comments referenced a “knee problem,” which introduces a slight wrinkle compared to the visual evidence of an ankle twist on the pitch. Whether the terminology reflects the actual diagnosis or simply imprecise shorthand remains to be clarified by further medical testing.
Szczęsny: the insurance policy
Wojciech Szczęsny, now 35, came out of retirement to join the club during the 2024/25 season and has remained on the roster as a reliable backup. The Polish international brings Champions League experience, penalty-saving pedigree, and spent years as a starter at Juventus and with the Polish national team.