Barcelona icon makes his pick between Ter Stegen and Joan Garcia – ‘It’s very easy’

Former Barcelona midfielder and membership icon Ivan Rakitic, who lately retired from soccer, didn’t mince phrases when requested about who ought to be the Catalans’ beginning goalkeeper.

The Blaugrana signed Joan Garcia this summer time from RCD Espanyol and have plans to put in him because the beginning goalkeeper forward of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who the membership need to offload.

The German worldwide, nonetheless, has no plans to go away the membership and is ready to struggle for his place, though he’s presently coping with a again challenge which may pressure him to bear surgical procedure.

Rakitic chooses Ter Stegen over Joan Garcia

So far as Rakitic is worried, there isn’t any debate so far as Barcelona’s goalkeeping division is worried – Ter Stegen is the clear primary.

“I spoke to him and he appeared very excited and glad. I hope his harm isn’t severe and he can return quickly,” Rakitic started in an interview with COPE (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

“Between Joan Garcia and Ter Stegen, it’s very straightforward. Ter Stegen performs,” he acknowledged, including that “he’s the captain and a extremely revered participant at Barça.”

Doubling down on his stance, Rakitic additional added: “If Marc is match and wholesome, there isn’t any doubt. I want all Barcelona’s issues have been to decide on between three nice gamers.”

Rakitic acknowledged Garcia’s expertise, however emphasised that competing at Barça is one other stage, saying:

“Joan has plenty of expertise, and he’s going to must earn it. It’s one factor to play for a La Liga staff and one other to be Barcelona’s primary. I don’t see a greater goalkeeper in Europe or on the planet”.

Rakitic additionally touched on the rising consideration round Lamine Yamal: “He’s a boy who deserves to get pleasure from himself and be glad. He’s a spectacular child, I solely hear good issues about him. Let’s get pleasure from him and let him be glad, that’s crucial factor.

On Lamine’s growth, he famous the significance of Hansi Flick: “He has the proper individual in Flick, and when he has to name him into his workplace, he’ll do it.”