Key Barcelona star on the verge of Spain call-up after clutch performances | OneFootball

Barcelona’s revival since the painful El Clasico defeat at the end of October has been one of the most encouraging storylines of their season. 

Much of the spotlight has understandably fallen on the team’s attacking firepower, but behind that resurgence lies a quieter, equally important pillar, namely, Joan Garcia. 

From all the heroics, the goalkeeper’s performance against Villarreal in particular deserves special attention, as it showed just how influential he has become during this recent run.

Notably, for the first time since Hansi Flick took charge, Barcelona have managed to string together three consecutive clean sheets across all competitions. 

Victories against Villarreal, Guadalajara, and Osasuna all came without conceding a single goal. 

Although Garcia was rested for the Guadalajara match, his presence in the other two fixtures was central to maintaining that defensive solidity.

A sense of assurance

Garcia’s importance is even more impressive considering the circumstances of his return. 

At the end of September, he suffered an injury in his left knee. Since recovering, however, he has returned sharper and more decisive. 

Against Villarreal, his contribution went beyond routine saves. He produced several match-defining interventions that kept Barcelona in control when the pressure mounted.

Joan Garcia has been very crucial for Barcelona. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

According to AS, this level of performance has pushed Garcia into a new conversation altogether. 

His recent displays have placed him firmly on the radar of Luis de la Fuente, the Spanish national team coach. 

While no immediate call-up is expected, the goalkeeper’s name is now very much part of the discussion.

Still a long shot

De la Fuente is known to value stability, and he is reluctant to disrupt the strong chemistry currently shared by Spain’s three goalkeepers. 

However, he is also aware that situations evolve quickly. 

If Barcelona continue to play high-level matches and Garcia keeps delivering performances of this standard, his case will become increasingly difficult to ignore.

For now, there is a sense of calm around the player, as Garcia and his entourage are not rushing anything and are fully focused on the present. 

Internally, there is confidence rather than anxiety. He believes his moment with the national team will come, even if it arrives later rather than sooner.