​AS: Joan García to Be Named in Spain's World Cup Squad, Representing His Country

May 8 – According to a report by AS editor-in-chief José Félix Díaz, Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García will be included in Luis de la Fuente's final 26-man squad to represent Spain at the World Cup, which kicks off in North America on June 11.

This decision is based primarily on García's performances across the entire season, as well as his demonstrated ability to integrate into the team during the last Spain camp. Beyond his competitive qualities, De la Fuente and his coaching staff place great value on a player's ability to adapt to the national team environment, especially during a tournament like the World Cup, where the preparation and competition cycle can last up to 50 days. As such, how well a player fits in with the group is considered crucial. Spain's World Cup preparations will begin in early June, and should they reach the final, the campaign will extend until July 19.

However, De la Fuente has long since made it clear that Unai Simón will be Spain's starting goalkeeper at the World Cup. The coaching staff have no doubts about this, and both Joan García and other Spanish internationals are well aware of the situation. They are also aware of the positive impact the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper brings both in goal and within the dressing room.

Unai Simón has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to the Spanish national team. During the European Championship, he postponed surgery to help the team and made himself available to the manager whenever needed, proving his complete dedication to the cause.

Joan García is in no rush, but earning a call-up and representing Spain at the World Cup has long been a goal in his career plan. He understands De la Fuente's approach and respects the manager's decision not to select him in the first half of the season. During that time, he focused on continuing to earn the respect of everyone – including his fellow goalkeepers in the national team setup, Unai Simón, David Raya, and Álex Remiro.

Within Barcelona, no one has questioned García's status as first-choice goalkeeper from the very beginning. At the start of this season, he displaced Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny as the team's starting goalkeeper, and that position has never been challenged. His consistent performances have helped him virtually secure the Zamora Trophy (awarded to the La Liga goalkeeper with the best goals-to-games ratio) and ultimately earn his ticket to the World Cup.

Joan García made his senior debut for Spain in a friendly against Egypt, which took place at the RCDE Stadium in Cornellà – his former home ground during his time at Espanyol.

Source: AS