FC Barcelona has acted swiftly after the injury to Joan García. With the Spanish keeper sidelined, Hansi Flick will now rely on veteran Wojciech Szczęsny as the starter, while Diego Kochen returns to the squad as the second-choice goalkeeper. Eder Aller, the 18-year-old talent from León, will serve as the third option.
Kochen Leaves the U-20 World Cup
On Monday, the United States U-20 team made its debut at the World Cup against New Caledonia. Kochen was initially set to play a key role in the tournament. However, following García’s meniscus injury, Barça requested his release from the American federation.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the US federation understood the urgent situation and agreed to let Kochen return to Barcelona.
Arrival in Time for Barça vs Real Sociedad
As reported by Sport, Kochen is expected to reach Barcelona in time to be on the bench for the La Liga clash against Real Sociedad at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
While logistical challenges may prevent him from joining Saturday’s training session, the plan is for him to recover quickly from travel fatigue and be available for Flick’s matchday squad.
From La Masia to the First Team
Kochen, a Miami-born goalkeeper, has already been in the first-team dynamic for two seasons. He has combined his role as third-choice keeper for the senior team with being a regular starter for Barça Atlètic under Juliano Belletti.
Originally, the U-20 World Cup was meant to be a valuable experience for his development, but circumstances have forced a change of plans. Now, instead of facing Sant Andreu with the B team on Sunday evening, Kochen will be sitting on the bench with the first team just hours earlier.
This shift shows the trust Barça has in him and highlights his growing importance as a long-term option for the club.
What could have been a golden opportunity for Kochen at the U-20 World Cup has turned into a pivotal role for Barça in the present. With Joan García out, the Miami-born keeper is set to step up as Szczęsny’s direct backup, proving once again that La Masia continues to provide solutions in difficult times.
Discover more from Barça Buzz
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
