Flick Will Keep Faith in Barcelona Veteran Despite Costly Mistake
Barcelona are preparing for Saturday’s trip to Sevilla with their goalkeeping situation once again under the spotlight.
Joan García’s recent knee problem has created an opening for Wojciech Szczęsny to return to the starting lineup, with Hansi Flick reportedly prepared to maintain his current hierarchy despite the Polish goalkeeper’s costly mistake against Racing Santander.
García felt discomfort after slipping during Barcelona’s recent match against Racing. Although subsequent examinations did not reveal a serious injury, the club are reportedly unwilling to take unnecessary risks with their first-choice goalkeeper.
As a result, Szczęsny is expected to start at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán, according to SPORT.
Szczęsny Remains García’s Immediate Backup
There was initially some uncertainty surrounding Barcelona’s goalkeeping hierarchy following the late arrival of Dominik Livaković during the summer transfer window.
Flick, however, quickly clarified his position by establishing Szczęsny as García’s immediate deputy.
That stance has reportedly not changed despite the veteran goalkeeper making an error against Racing that directly contributed to one of the opposition’s goals.
Flick appeared to play down the mistake after the match, emphasizing that errors are part of football while maintaining confidence in Szczęsny’s ability to respond when given another opportunity.
The manager’s continued backing means Livaković is unlikely to leapfrog the experienced Polish goalkeeper immediately.
Szczęsny’s Commitment Still Matters
Szczęsny’s relationship with Barcelona’s coaching staff is also understood to be strengthened by his commitment to the club.
The goalkeeper came out of retirement to join Barcelona after Marc-André ter Stegen suffered a serious injury two seasons ago. He quickly adapted to the squad and became an important figure within the dressing room.
That experience and commitment remain valuable to Flick as Barcelona navigate García’s temporary absence.
There could still be discussions before Saturday’s game, but unless García recovers sufficiently to return, the expectation is that Szczęsny will take responsibility between the posts.
Despite the criticism surrounding his latest error, Flick’s position appears unchanged.
For now, Barcelona’s plan is straightforward: Szczęsny remains the second-choice goalkeeper, and he is expected to get the call against Sevilla if García is unavailable.