Athletic Club manager shares his view on Simon vs Joan Garcia debate ahead of Barcelona clash | OneFootball

The Spanish Super Cup semi-final between Athletic Club and Barcelona is being framed as much more than just a battle for a place in the final. 

Beyond everything, one particular subplot has captured national attention, which is the goalkeeper duel between Unai Simon and Joan Garcia. 

With the debate around Spain’s No.1 intensifying in recent months, this high-profile clash in Saudi Arabia has naturally added fuel to the conversation.

Within the Athletic Club’s camp, the situation appears far calmer, as Ernesto Valverde seemed keen to downplay the issue when asked about the external chatter surrounding the matter.

What did he say?

Speaking ahead of the semi-final, Valverde made it clear that the topic has not even come up internally. He stated,

“I haven’t spoken to him, I don’t see any compelling reason to talk to him about Barça having a great goalkeeper or Arsenal, Chelsea, Real Sociedad or Osasuna having one,” he began.

Valverde then went further, addressing the possible psychological impact of public debate on a goalkeeper’s performance. 

He was adamant that it should not matter, regardless of who shines on the night. 

Joan Garcia has yet to play for Spain. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The Athletic coach explained that any narrative created by outside voices should not affect his players, adding.

“The debate that may arise if ‘one day Unai Simon makes a lot of saves or if another goalkeeper does, it doesn’t have to influence him’ in terms of performance.”

He concluded by once again dismissing the wider noise, underlining mutual respect between the two clubs.

“We already know that Barça has a great goalkeeper, and so do we. I don’t give it any importance.”

Opportunity for Joan Garcia

While Simon remains an established name for Spain, Garcia’s situation is evolving. 

Despite his strong performances, the Barcelona goalkeeper has yet to receive a call-up under Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente. 

That said, recent reports suggest that Garcia is now on the national team radar ahead of the March international break.

Although De la Fuente is not present in Saudi Arabia, he will be watching closely the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, especially as competition for places intensifies. 

Source: Mundo Deportivo