Barca 'gives way' to Real, without their number 1 goalkeeper in El Clásico

Barcelona's main goalkeeper Joan Garcia is likely to be absent from the first El Clásico of the La Liga season against Real Madrid because he has not yet recovered from his injury.

Joan Garcia recently joined Barca in the summer of 2025 but has already made a strong impression by taking over the number 1 spot from Ter Stegen. He played a key role in helping Blaugrana remain unbeaten in 7 consecutive matches (winning 6 of them) since the start of the season. However, just as he was hitting his stride, the Spanish goalkeeper suffered an injury during training at the end of September.

Initially, Barca's medical team diagnosed Joan Garcia with a minor injury, expecting him to miss only about 2 to 3 matches. However, after a thorough examination, it was found that Garcia's problem is more serious, requiring him to be sidelined for approximately 2 months.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Joan Garcia aimed to return for the match against Real Madrid on October 26, but this is almost impossible. Given his current progress, the 24-year-old goalkeeper will not fully recover in time for the season’s first El Clásico. Moreover, Barca cannot take the risk of playing him.

Coach Hansi Flick understands this well. The new season is just beginning, and they need Joan Garcia for the long journey ahead. Besides, Barca is not in such a desperate situation that they would face major problems in goal without Garcia. Since Joan Garcia’s injury, Wojciech Szczesny has been given the starting role in the last 3 matches. The results have been unfavorable — one draw and two losses — but the Polish keeper cannot be blamed as the mistakes were not his fault. Alongside the bad news about Joan Garcia, Barca received positive updates in attack.

The attacking trio of Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Fermin Lopez will return after this month’s international break. They are ready to play in the La Liga match against Girona on October 18. Regarding Barca’s offense, recently director Deco emphasized that the club will focus on contract renewals and internal stability rather than pursuing high-profile transfers to revamp the forward line.

He said: "Barca should not be overly obsessed with signing a traditional number 9. That is certain. Perhaps the team can still compete without a classic number 9 up front. This is not the time to talk about signing new players. If necessary, Ferran Torres can play as a number 9."

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