Barcelona ace opens up on facing former side under huge pressure: ‘It was a different game’

Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia continues to enjoy a remarkable rise after being recognised at the Gran Gala Mundo Deportivo, where he received the El Corte Inglés award for Best Goalkeeper in La Liga 2024/25. 

The award was the result of an outstanding campaign on an individual level, as Garcia finished the league season as the goalkeeper with the highest number of saves in La Liga, stopping an impressive 146 shots. 

He also led the league in goals prevented, with a figure of 7.4, which shows just how often he rescued his team in critical moments. 

Along the way, his performances were recognised monthly as well, with awards for the best save in La Liga in both February and March.

A return to Espanyol

One of the defining chapters of Garcia’s journey with Barcelona came during his return to RCDE Stadium, a match loaded with emotion and external pressure. 

Reflecting on that occasion, the Barcelona goalkeeper explained how he approached the game mentally.

“I wasn’t particularly nervous against Espanyol, but it was a different game,” he said.

Rather than dwelling on individual moments, the goalkeeper remains focused on the bigger picture. 

Speaking about Barcelona’s current trajectory and ambitions for the rest of the season, Garcia showed a calm confidence that has become one of his defining traits.

“I think the season is going well, we’re doing well, and we’re still in all competitions, which is the important thing.”

The gala itself also provided a lighter moment, as Garcia was invited to step outside his comfort zone and take a penalty instead of stopping one. 

While his effort was on target, scoring was never really on the cards, something the goalkeeper took in good humour.

Notably, Garcia had already explained why he prefers to stay away from spot-kicks. Reflecting on his early footballing days, he recalled,

“When I was very young, I played as a field player, but it wasn’t my thing, and when I was about six years old, I became a goalkeeper. 

“That’s why I let those who know how to do it take the penalties.”