Joan García’s rise at Barcelona reignites Spain’s goalkeeping debate ahead of World Cup 2026

Joan García’s recent form has reignited one of Spanish football’s most talked-about debates. His display in the Catalan derby at Cornellà, making seven crucial saves against his former club Espanyol, drew widespread praise and intensified calls for his inclusion in Luis de la Fuente’s squad as Barcelona won 2-0.

Since returning from a November meniscus injury, García has been in remarkable form. He has kept seven clean sheets in 16 appearances this season, conceding 14 goals, and has been decisive in victories that have helped FC Barcelona maintain their lead in La Liga. In his last three matches, he faced 13 shots on target without letting one through.

Spain’s established goalkeeper trio – Unai Simón, David Raya, and Álex Remiro – has delivered consistently, winning the UEFA Euro 2024 and the previous Nations League. Many argue that changing the lineup so close to a major tournament would be unwise. Journalist Mónica Marchante is one such person, arguing: “It seems like a lack of respect towards Unai Simón” to suggest dropping him, because he has won so much and been reliable for the national team.

Others, however, believe García cannot be ignored. Manolo Lama, one of Spain’s biggest voices in football, described the Barça keeper as Spain’s top option, stating, “Right now he is the best goalkeeper in Spain.” He also expressed full confidence in De la Fuente, reminding audiences that “every time the coach chooses someone, he gets it right.” Another pundit, Álvaro Benito went further, highlighting García’s extraordinary level. “What Joan García is doing is so impressive,” Benito said. “If a player appears, as was the case we saw with Lamine Yamal, who became one of the best players in the world, even if you have a winger who you trust and is good… Garcia is not just simply a good goalkeeper, he is doing outrageous stuff.”

Within the squad, the message has been cautious. In October, Unai Simón acknowledged García’s talent but defended the current hierarchy. He said that the best three keepers should be called by Spain but warned against pressure which “undermines the work of David Raya and Álex Remiro.”

García himself remains grounded. Ahead of the Supercopa semifinal against Athletic Club, he focused on team goals rather than personal glory. “Every player wants to go to the national team,” he said. “If it comes, I will be happy and proud.” On his daily approach, he added, “I would not say the World Cup is an objective. My objective is to improve day by day.” Even after earning MVP in the derby, he acknowledged, “I have a lot to improve. I have to try to do things as well as possible.”

His absence from Spain’s last two call-ups – first due to injury, then because of limited rhythm post-injury – partly explains why he has yet to debut. The March international window, when Spain play Argentina in the Finalissima, will be the last opportunity to test new options before finalizing the World Cup squad. It’s becoming more likely that he at least makes the squad, but will De La Fuente really change who his #1 is?

For his part, Simón has been steady for Spain even as his form for his club waxed and waned. He had a poor showing against Barcelona a few months back, when Athletic lost 4-0, but he followed that up with four clean sheets in three games. There are those who say you can’t drop a goalkeeper who has consistently delivered for the national team regardless of club form. But it’s safe to say that if García continues his outstanding run, the debate will continue as well.

Source: barcablaugranes.com