Barcelona’s injury crisis continues to grow. Just one day after Hansi Flick confirmed Raphinha had suffered hamstring discomfort, first-choice goalkeeper Joan García has now joined the list of casualties. The 23-year-old shot-stopper picked up a knock in training after the match against Oviedo and will undergo surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee.
García had been a reliable presence between the posts since his arrival, starting all seven official matches this season (six in La Liga and one in the Champions League against Newcastle), conceding just five goals. His injury leaves Flick with a major problem ahead of a crucial run of games.
Szczesny to Step In
With García sidelined, Wojciech Szczesny will take over as the starting goalkeeper. The Polish veteran is expected to be in goal for the La Liga clash against Real Sociedad, as well as the Champions League showdown with PSG and the league game against Sevilla.
Youngster Eder Aller will be promoted to backup, taking advantage of Diego Kochen’s absence while he represents the United States at the U-20 World Cup. Aller, already known in the club for his precocious debut in training sessions under Xavi at just 15 years old, will now be closer to the first team.
Why Only 4 to 6 Weeks?
The club statement specified a recovery time of four to six weeks, much shorter than the typical 3-6 month absence associated with meniscus injuries. The key lies in the type of procedure: García will undergo an arthroscopy performed by Dr. Joan Carles Monllau, who will likely opt for a partial meniscectomy.
Unlike meniscal repairs, which require long recovery times to allow the tissue to heal, a meniscectomy removes only the damaged portion. This less invasive procedure allows for a faster return to action, especially in cases where the tear is small and stable.
While this approach increases the long-term risk of joint issues such as arthritis, it allows professional athletes like García to get back on the pitch quickly. All signs suggest that Barça’s goalkeeper suffered a minor, non-repairable tear, explaining the relatively short timeline.
A Critical Absence for Flick
For Hansi Flick, García’s injury could not come at a worse time. Barcelona face Real Sociedad, PSG, and Sevilla in the coming weeks, all vital matches for La Liga and Champions League ambitions. The German coach will now rely on Szczesny’s experience to keep the team stable at the back.
Although García will be missed, the expectation is that he will be back in action after the international break if his recovery goes according to plan.
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