Flick sticks with Joan García in goal for Copa clash at Santander
Barcelona boss opts against rotation between the sticks for tricky Copa del Rey tie against second-tier leaders Racing Santander.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is showing no interest in squad rotation between the sticks, naming Joan García as his number one goalkeeper for tonight’s Copa del Rey round of 16 clash against Racing Santander.
No rest for García
Despite hinting at potential changes to his starting XI following Barça’s exertions in the Spanish Super Cup, Flick has decided his first-choice keeper will remain in goal at El Sardinero stadium against the second division leaders.
This selection confirms what many Barça watchers have suspected - García is now firmly established as the club’s number one, with both Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny relegated to bench duties for this cup tie.
The decision represents a departure from Flick’s approach in the previous round, where ter Stegen was selected against Guadalajara. At that time, the German coach made it clear this wasn’t the start of a competition-based rotation policy - and he’s proven true to his word.
Rising star
García’s stats this season tell their own story:
- 18 appearances across all competitions
- 16 goals conceded
- 8 clean sheets
- Making his Copa del Rey debut in Barça colours tonight
The goalkeeper from Sallent has rapidly established himself as Flick’s preferred choice, with the Barcelona boss recently singing his praises after the derby against Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium. “He’s one of the best in the world,” Flick gushed - proper Bobby Dazzler of a compliment for the young stopper.
Trophy ambitions
Flick’s selection sends a clear message about Barça’s Copa del Rey ambitions this season. The German gaffer is taking no chances against Racing Santander, selecting what he considers his strongest option between the posts as the Blaugrana aim to defend their cup crown.
With Barcelona fighting on multiple fronts, Flick’s goalkeeper hierarchy now seems crystal clear - and Joan García is the man with the number one jersey firmly in his grasp.