Joan Garcia warned playing for Barcelona not enough to secure Spain spot as Luis de la Fuente explains goalkeeper's omission from squad

De la Fuente has defended his decision to leave Joan Garcia out of Spain’s World Cup qualifier squad, despite the goalkeeper sealing a high-profile move to Barcelona. Seven Blaugrana players have been included for the September international break, including Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, Gavi and Fermin Lopez, but Garcia was overlooked. 

The 24-year-old had been tipped for a first senior call-up after an outstanding 2024-25 campaign with Espanyol, where he produced a league-high 146 saves to help his boyhood club avoid relegation. Barca eventually triggered his €25 million (£21m/$27m) release clause amid interest from Arsenal, Manchester United and Aston Villa, but the national team door remains shut for now.

Garcia’s omission highlights the depth of Spain’s goalkeeping pool, with Unai Simon, David Raya and Alex Remiro retaining their places. De la Fuente’s message is clear: international call-ups will not be dictated by the badge on a player’s shirt. While Garcia’s domestic reputation is growing, his lack of international recognition could shield him from immediate pressure but also delay his rise as Spain’s long-term No.1.

La Roja boss De la Fuente explained his decision to omit Garcia, saying at a press conference after the official announcement: "If I'd felt pressure, I would have brought him in. I don't feel it for him or anyone else. I've known the players for a long time. I had him in the Under-21s. We monitor all the goalkeepers, and Joan could be here now, before, or in the future. And not because he's at Barca. I want to tell you that players from clubs don't come here; this is the national team, regardless of the club they come from. 

"Let's not make assumptions about whether 6 or 7 come from one club... Let's give this importance. Joan's time will come, for sure."

The Spaniard has already started both of Barcelona’s La Liga fixtures against Mallorca and Levante, keeping one clean sheet, and he is expected to retain his place in goal when the Catalan giants face Rayo Vallecano. With La Liga and Champions League football ahead, strong performances could force De la Fuente to reconsider for Spain’s next squad later this year.