Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who was born in Sallent, has spoken about Spain’s World Cup preparations from the team’s camp in Chattanooga, USA, as the squad gets ready for its opening match.
Garcia, speaking to Sport, said the heat in Chattanooga has been the biggest surprise since arriving. He also noted the welcome from teammates and the support from fans, especially in Mexico, which has helped him feel the World Cup atmosphere.
He said the main priority is team unity. “The team is the most important: keeping us united. It’s a long season and everyone has to contribute from their position,” he said. Garcia added that, as one of the goalkeepers, he is focused on helping the squad even if he is not starting.
Garcia praised his fellow goalkeepers, Unai Simón and David Raya, and also described Álex Remiro as a “first-class goalkeeper” and one of his favourites in La Liga. He said Simón gives confidence to the group and that Raya brings a complete, active style of play.
On Spain’s target for the tournament, Garcia was clear, the aim is to win the World Cup. He also said being a Barcelona goalkeeper brings more attention and pressure, which he sees as a positive. He compared that path with Víctor Valdés, and said the competition at Barça with Marc-André ter Stegen helps players improve.
Garcia confirmed that Ter Stegen’s injury, which will keep him out of the World Cup, was a “hard blow” for the team. He also said the squad is using its time in Chattanooga to adjust to the time difference, with rest, sleep, training, video sessions, gym work, sauna and pool time, plus games of PlayStation, ping-pong and billiards. For more Catalonia football coverage, see our news tag page.
