Joan Garcia, FC Barcelona’s standout goalkeeper, is pushing to return from injury, with his recovery timeline now taking shape.
With Hansi Flick’s squad riding high, the Blaugrana are banking on the return of key players like Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal post-international break.
However, Garcia’s recovery from a recent injury has become a critical storyline, blending cautious optimism with the intense anticipation surrounding the Santiago Bernabeu showdown.
The 24-year-old, who joined from Espanyol in the summer, underwent minor knee surgery after Barcelona’s victory over Real Oviedo last month, with an initial recovery timeline of 4-6 weeks.
According to Diario Sport, Joan Garcia is pushing hard to be fit for El Clasico, and both he and the club’s medical team are increasingly confident he could receive medical clearance in time.
His rapid progress has sparked hope among fans, though he’s already ruled out for upcoming matches against Girona and Olympiacos.
Garcia’s emergence as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper, marked by his sharp reflexes and commanding presence, makes his potential return a massive boost.
The club prioritizes his long-term fitness over a premature return, even for a match of El Clasico’s magnitude.
If Joan Garcia misses out, Wojciech Szczesny, the veteran goalkeeper with a perfect record against Real Madrid during his time in Catalonia, is ready to step in.
Szczesny’s experience provides a safety net, but Garcia’s absence would be felt, given his seamless integration into Flick’s system.
For Barcelona’s supporters, the prospect of Garcia guarding the net in this storied rivalry is tantalizing. His youth, poise, and ability to handle pressure have made him a fan favorite.
As the October 26 clash looms, Garcia’s race against time will be pivotal. Whether it’s his gloves or Szczesny’s in goal, Barcelona’s resolve remains unshaken, but Garcia’s return could tip the scales in their favor.
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