Flick keeps cards close to chest on Barcelona keeper choice for Copa clash
Barcelona boss hints Joan García likely to start against Racing Santander but leaves final decision until matchday, as goalkeeper situation remains fluid.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has kept the door ajar regarding his goalkeeper selection for Thursday’s Copa del Rey clash against Racing Santander, though he’s hinted Joan García may keep his place between the sticks.
Keeper conundrum continues
The German gaffer didn’t fully commit when pressed about his goalkeeper plans during Wednesday’s presser, initially suggesting García would continue but then backtracking slightly.
“I think Joan will play,” Flick stated, before adding they’d make the final call on Thursday when the team meets up.
This represents something of a change from mid-December when Flick opted for Ter Stegen against Guadalajara in the previous Copa round, giving the Catalan keeper a breather. That selection made sense as Ter Stegen was just returning from a lengthy back injury and needed minutes to assess his fitness levels.
Transfer window implications
The goalkeeper situation at Barça has taken on extra significance with the January transfer window now in full swing. Ter Stegen’s name has been circulating in transfer conversations, with the German international reportedly aware he needs regular playing time if he wants to feature in the next World Cup.
Rumours have linked the Barça captain with a potential move to high-flying Girona, though sources indicate the German hasn’t made any concrete decision about his future yet.
Reading between the lines
Flick’s reluctance to nail his colours to the mast suggests there might be more happening behind the scenes than meets the eye. The manager’s apparent preference for García in this cup tie could be telling, especially as Ter Stegen would typically be expected to reclaim his spot now that he’s back to full fitness.
Whether this is simply rotation or something more significant remains to be seen, but it’s certainly one to keep your mince pies on as the transfer window progresses.