Joan García’s arrival as Barcelona’s first signing for the 2025/26 season signals a definitive new era for the club’s goalkeeping position. The move came as a surprise, as few expected a change in a role held almost unchallenged by team captain Marc-André ter Stegen. Moreover, many assumed García’s well-known affinity for RCD Espanyol would prevent him from joining their city rivals.
However, Barcelona’s management had already decided it was time to conclude the German goalkeeper’s long reign. “Signing Joan García was an act of excellent foresight by Deco,” club president Joan Laporta stated in an interview. “We already suspected that ter Stegen was not fully recovered, and the coach wanted to reinforce that position.” At a cost of €25 million plus inflation adjustments, the club viewed the signing as a prime market opportunity it could not afford to miss.
García’s impressive performances and statistics justify the club’s confidence. Last season, he made 146 saves in 38 league matches—an average of 3.8 per game—and prevented 8.59 more goals than statistically expected based on the shots he faced. At just 24 years old, he also provides Barcelona with long-term stability in a critical position.
With the recent confirmation that ter Stegen will require another surgery, García is left with no direct competitor for the starting spot, as Wojciech Szczęsny is not expected to challenge for the role in the way a fully fit ter Stegen would have.
This added pressure does not appear to affect García, who was determined to join a club that could offer him a guaranteed starting position. Barcelona assured him that he was their top choice for both the present and the future. Head coach Hansi Flick was reportedly candid with ter Stegen, informing him that García was the chosen successor and that the door was open for his departure.
García’s first major test will be against Vissel Kobe, where he will aim to build on the strong impression he has made in early training sessions. His sharp reflexes and agility have already earned praise from new teammates, including applause from Szczęsny. Having returned to training four days ahead of schedule, García is determined to prove he has the quality to successfully inherit the mantle from ter Stegen at the powerhouse club.
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