Joan Garcia reveals what it is really like being Barcelona’s number one: ‘There’s more expectation’ | OneFootball

Few players have seen their career change as dramatically over the last year as Joan Garcia.

After establishing himself as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper under Hansi Flick, the young shot-stopper now finds himself preparing for the biggest tournament of his career with Spain. 

Expectations around him have grown rapidly, but judging by his latest comments, the goalkeeper remains determined to keep his feet firmly on the ground.

Speaking in an interview with SPORT, Garcia reflected on his breakthrough season, his place in the Spanish national team setup and life inside a Barcelona dressing room packed with competition.

Embracing the opportunity and praises Lamine

Being selected for a World Cup squad is a dream for any player, but Garcia knows his journey is only beginning.

During the interview, the Barcelona goalkeeper was asked whether he sees similarities between his situation and that of Victor Valdes, who famously had to wait for recognition with Spain despite enjoying enormous success at club level.

“I hope I can achieve the same as him – he won everything. 

Joan Garcia is hoping to play at the World Cup. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“I’m really happy to be here and I’m looking forward to enjoying the journey and going as far as possible.”

The goalkeeper also spoke about Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal, who continues to attract huge attention despite his age.

Garcia believes the teenager is settling into the national team environment well and expects him to make a strong impact.

“I think he’s doing well, meeting his targets; little by little he’s settling in with us. It’s good for him to feel 100 per cent part of the team; he’ll be ready for his debut.”

Opening up on pressure and competition

Playing for Barcelona comes with a unique spotlight, especially for goalkeepers. Every mistake is analysed and every performance is judged against the club’s rich history.

Yet Garcia insists he views that attention as something positive rather than a burden.

“At Barça there’s more expectation, more people are watching you, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It’s positive that people feel this way about you.”

The goalkeeper also admitted that pressure is simply part of modern football. Reflecting on how he handles it, Garcia said,

“Yes, I try to be. There are moments of everything. We’re used to the pressure. At Barça, it’s more evident in everyone. 

“In every team, there are high expectations. It’s something you have from the moment you start in this world.”

On Ter Stegen and Szczęsny

Talent has never been the biggest question surrounding Joan Garcia. The real test was always going to be how he handled the pressure that comes with becoming Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Joan Garcia embrases the competition. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Rather than speaking about guarantees or personal ambitions, Garcia focused on competition, patience and collective success. 

He also showed his appreciation for the goalkeeping group around him. Speaking about Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury, Garcia said,

“It’s a shame he’s missing the World Cup through injury. He was in good form, playing very well, and would have been at the World Cup. 

“It’s a real blow; these things unfortunately happen in football, and you have to support him.”

Furthermore, when asked about competition within the Barcelona squad, he added, 

“It makes you compete, so to speak, and sharing the dressing room is very positive. 

“The pressure is good, and if you have a good relationship off the pitch, as is the case here or at the club, everything goes well.”

Lastly, when asked about Wojciech Szczęsny, the Barcelona goalkeeper offered a glimpse into the dressing room atmosphere:

“There are plenty. He’s a really funny bloke. We’re very happy to have him with us and hopefully it’ll stay that way. Everyone likes Tek,” he concluded.