Joan Garcia injury concern eases after Barcelona goalkeeper is substituted in seven-goal win

Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia was replaced at half-time after suffering a slight ankle twist during Wednesday’s 7-2 La Liga victory over Racing de Santander.

The Catalan side had established a commanding lead against their visitors at Spotify Camp Nou, but Garcia did not return for the second half. Hansi Flick chose not to risk the goalkeeper and sent on Poland international Wojciech Szczesny instead.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, the injury occurred in the closing stages of the first half. Garcia slipped on the wet artificial surface while attempting to retrieve a ball that had gone out of play, causing an unnatural movement and a minor twist to his ankle.

Szczesny had to complete a lengthy warm-up in heavy rain before replacing Garcia, with the weather conditions making preparations particularly difficult.

Initial indications suggest the problem is minor and should not prevent Garcia from being involved in Barcelona’s next match, away to Sevilla at the Sanchez-Pizjuan on Saturday.

However, that assessment has yet to be confirmed. Garcia is due to undergo further medical examinations in the coming hours, after which Barcelona are expected to provide an official update.