Who Should Start in Goal?
Joan García
- Barcelona have activated the €25 M release clause to sign the 24‑year‑old from Espanyol
- Club leadership, Hansi Flick, and sporting director Deco view him as the long‑term No. 1, with the passing ability and physical presence they want
- The deal is essentially done—with both Barcelona and Pep Guardiola (notably) praising him .
Verdict: García is being groomed to start and lead the next era between the sticks.
Wojciech Szczęsny
- Signed last season as temporary cover and quickly won the coach’s confidence
- Contract extended through 2027; Flick wants him retained as experienced backup
Marc‑André ter Stegen
- The long-time captain and #1, but his return from a serious injury and high salary make his future unclear .
- Despite support from club icons like Masip claiming he should stay, all signs point to Barcelona phasing him out
- He may leave for regular game time, thus protecting his Germany national team prospects
Iñaki Peña & Other Youth Prospects
- Peña is expected to depart, while the third‑keeper slot will be contested by La Masia youngsters like Astralaga, Kochen, or Yaakobishvili
Summary of Depth Chart
| Role | Likely Starter | Backup #1 | Backup #2 / Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Joan García | Wojciech Szczęsny | Youth prospects |
| Former starter | Marc‑André ter Stegen? (likely leaving) | — | — |
Final Take
Next season, expect Joan García to be the starting goalkeeper at Camp Nou. He’s the club’s future. Wojciech Szczęsny will serve as a trusted backup. As for ter Stegen, a move away seems likely, given both his stagnant role and the club’s strategy to move on.
Would you like a deep dive into García’s stats last season, or compare his style to ter Stegen’s?
