Joan Garcia has arrived at Barcelona with ambition, clarity, and a message: competition for the No.1 shirt is healthy, but it’s Hansi Flick’s call.
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Garcia eyes starting role despite Ter Stegen presenceCalls goalkeeper rivalry “healthy competition"Garcia says it's up to Hansi FlickFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Barca signed Garcia from Espanyol after triggering his release clause, a controversial switch across town despite the intense rivalry between the two clubs. The move has sparked uncertainty about Marc-Andre ter Stegen's future at the club, with boss Flick set to make a decision on who will be the first choice goalkeeper next season.
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While the transfer market is only just heating up, the club's goalkeeping situation is already threatening to boil over. Ter Stegen, now 33, remains under contract and is reportedly reluctant to leave despite the club’s willingness to part ways to ease wage bills and dressing room tension. Garcia, meanwhile, is being touted as a long-term solution and an emblem of the club’s rebuild. With interest in Ter Stegen emerging from Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City, a summer exit could still materialise.
WHAT GARCIA SAID
Speaking to Barca’s official media, Garcia addressed the fierce competition he faces for the No.1 spot and his mindset heading into pre-season: "The problem is with the coach. I really want to contribute everything I can and hopefully it will be by playing.
"When you're at a team of this level, there has to be competition; it's very healthy to have it, it should be. The demands of everyday life make us all better. There's a special connection between goalkeepers that might not exist in other positions."
DID YOU KNOW?
The Spanish goalkeeper made 93 saves for Espanyol last season, the third-highest in the league. Garcia has only played one full season as a top-flight starter but was nominated for La Liga Goalkeeper of the Season.
Meanwhile, Germany international Ter Stegen joined the Blaugrana in 2014 and has made over 400 appearances for the club. Barca are reportedly considering terminating Ter Stegen’s contract to facilitate a clean slate.
