International selections are beginning to offer a glimpse into how squads could look ahead of the next World Cup.
Managers are not only rewarding current form but also experimenting with depth in key positions as they prepare for a demanding tournament.
At Barcelona, several players have built strong cases for international recognition through consistent performances this season.
The club’s influence within the Spain setup remains significant, with multiple names continuing to feature prominently in national team plans.
And now, one more Barcelona player has broken into that conversation.
Joan Garcia has received his first-ever senior call-up to the Spain national team, marking a major milestone in his rise at Barcelona.
The young goalkeeper has been included in the squad for upcoming friendlies against Serbia and Egypt, as Spain begin refining their options ahead of the World Cup.
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente made it clear that Garcia’s selection is part of a broader plan to evaluate goalkeeping depth at a crucial stage.
“It was the perfect time to have these great goalkeepers on the team. As of today, these are the four goalkeepers who could be called up for the World Cup.
“It was very important that they were all together,” he said, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo.
The manager also hinted at potential tactical flexibility when it comes to squad composition for the tournament.
“Looking ahead to the World Cup, we’re going to see some different things, because it’s an unusual situation.
“And this is one of them,” he added, suggesting Spain could even include four goalkeepers in their final squad.
Garcia’s inclusion, however, is no surprise internally, with De la Fuente revealing that the Barcelona shot-stopper has long been on the radar.
“Joan Garcia is a tremendous goalkeeper, we didn’t just discover him now. We’ve known him for a long time.
“He was an U-21 international with me.”
He went even further in his praise, underlining the belief in Garcia’s long-term potential.
“He is one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”
Barcelona’s presence in the squad does not end there, with several other first-team stars also earning selection, further highlighting the club’s strong influence on the national side.
Players such as Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez and Pau Cubarsi have all been included, reinforcing Barcelona’s role as a key supplier of talent to Spain.
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