Barcelona handed huge Joan Garcia boost after goalkeeper forced off against Newcastle

Barcelona’s medical staff have allayed fears over Joan Garcia, confirming the goalkeeper has escaped injury after being substituted during Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Newcastle. Early speculation suggested the 23-year-old had sustained a calf problem that would sideline him for several weeks, but comprehensive tests on Thursday returned a clean bill of health.

A club statement issued yesterday afternoon read: “Following today’s tests, Joan Garcia has been cleared with no injury and will be available for selection.”

The news represents a significant lift for head coach Hansi Flick, who is preparing for Sunday’s La Liga visit of Rayo Vallecano, the final fixture before the international break. Garcia’s availability preserves Flick’s goalkeeping depth at a pivotal stage of the campaign.

Barcelona’s players have been granted a day of rest after the midweek victory over Newcastle, a decision revealed by midfielder Fermin Lopez in post-match interviews. The squad is scheduled to reconvene on Friday to begin preparations for the Rayo clash.