Joan Garcia says Barcelona move was the right decision despite Espanyol backlash

Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia has spoken publicly about his controversial move from Espanyol, insisting he has no regrets about joining the Catalan club’s historic rivals.

The transfer caused widespread anger among sections of the Espanyol support, and the reaction has continued more than a year after Garcia’s departure. Relations between the goalkeeper and some of his former club’s fans became particularly strained when he was subjected to hostile chants before Espanyol’s match against Sevilla. The incident was recorded in an official report by La Liga.

Speaking to Catalan newspaper Sport, Garcia explained how speculation about a possible move gradually developed into a formal approach from Barcelona.

“There were a lot of emotions because this always happens,” he said. “There are rumours, a lot of press coverage and many people following the situation. A lot of news comes out, some of it true and some of it not.”

Garcia said the situation became more serious once Barcelona made clear they wanted to sign him and were prepared to make a strong offer.

“But when they seriously tell you that they want to sign you and that they are ready to make a good offer for you, you begin to take it in,” he added. “You talk about it a lot with the people close to you and your family, and you think about what would be best for you and for them as well. After that, you make the best decision.”

Despite the sensitivity of moving between the two clubs, Garcia said the choice was not especially difficult.

“It was not difficult, and I believe I made the right decision,” he said.

The transfer remains a source of frustration for part of the Espanyol support because of the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs in Catalonia. However, Garcia’s performances have helped reduce the controversy surrounding the move.

He established himself as a first-choice player in Hans Flick’s team from the beginning of his Barcelona career and made a strong start on the pitch. Garcia has kept 21 clean sheets and has recorded an 82% save success rate.

He has also won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup with Barcelona, while taking part in the World Cup.

Those performances led to Garcia being nominated for the Ballon d’Or award for the best goalkeeper. The recognition has strengthened the view that his move was not simply a contentious decision, but one that has already produced immediate sporting benefits for both the player and his new club.