The close of the 2025 summer transfer window dropped a bomb in Catalonia. Barça made an unexpected move and paid RCD Espanyol the release clause for their star goalkeeper Joan García. This swift action left Espanyol with no room for negotiation.
The blow surprised both insiders and outsiders. The Perico club barely had time to react, which infuriated much of their fanbase. Meanwhile, the operation provided significant income and reorganized their sporting structure in just a few hours.
Barça: Hansi Flick had it under control
Joan García was one of the most in-form goalkeepers in La Liga the previous season. With 146 saves and the best record for goals prevented in the competition, he had become essential for Espanyol's survival. Barça triggered his clause, valued at €25 million plus CPI (about €26.34 million), securing his signing without any intermediate negotiations.
Flick's role was key. The German coach had made it clear that he needed a reliable goalkeeper after doubts about Ter Stegen. With Joan, he gets an option ready to compete from day one.
Immediate repercussions
The news exploded among Espanyol's fans with criticism of the management. Sporting director Fran Garagarza acknowledged his surprise at the lack of prior contact and emphasized that only the clause was executed. Despite this, he highlighted that the funds caused allowed them to finance 12 signings and renew key figures like Puado.
Espanyol closed the window with a strengthened team ready to compete, although their goal was left without its hero. The transfer left deep emotional wounds and further strained the rivalry with their culé neighbor.
Joan García is Barça's new guardian
Joan García was introduced as Barça's new player with a contract until 2031. In an emotional video, he said goodbye to Espanyol, stating that he takes "much more than soccer" with him and that his departure won't be easy to understand.
The goalkeeper justified his decision as a deep reflection with those around him, considering that signing for Barça was the next step in his career. In the first training sessions, both the fans and the coaching staff valued his security between the posts and his ability with the ball.
In his first appearances, Joan lived up to expectations. In just three league matches, he delivered standout performances as the team's savior and solidified his profile as a tough goalkeeper with great potential.