FC Barcelona’s Joan Garcia faces a fresh recovery timeline following successful knee surgery, with key matches on the horizon.
The 24-year-old, a summer arrival from RCD Espanyol, sustained the injury during a recent match against Real Oviedo, ruling him out of Friday’s training session.
With Barcelona already grappling with absences like Gavi, who faces months out, and other key players on the treatment table, Hansi Flick is under pressure to maintain stability.
Garcia’s surgery, performed by Dr. Joan Carles Monllau, marks a critical moment as the team eyes crucial fixtures, including a Champions League clash with PSG.
Encouragingly, Garcia has not been ruled out of the upcoming El Clásico against Real Madrid on October 26, according to AS journalist Javi Miguel.
The procedure revealed no collateral damage, described as “clean and straightforward” by club sources, raising hopes for a recovery on the shorter end of the projected four-to-six-week timeline.
If progress remains smooth, Garcia could return in time for the Santiago Bernabéu showdown, a significant boost for Barcelona.
Unlike Gavi’s complex meniscus surgery, which extended his recovery to five months, Garcia’s operation went as planned, with the medical team optimistic about his swift return.
Garcia’s potential availability for El Clásico is vital, as he has been ever-present in goal this season.
However, he will miss at least five upcoming matches, including clashes with Real Sociedad, PSG, Sevilla, Girona, and Olympiacos.
In his absence, veteran Wojciech Szczesny will take over, with young Diego Kochen recalled from international duty as cover.
Barcelona’s medical staff, led by Monllau, expressed confidence in Garcia’s recovery immediately post-surgery, setting the October 26 clash as his primary target.
As Flick navigates this injury-plagued period, Garcia’s progress will be closely monitored, with fans hopeful their key goalkeeper can return to bolster the squad for one of La Liga’s biggest stages.
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