Barcelona learn how long Joan Garcia will be sidelined after successful knee operation with goalkeeper expected to miss Clasico showdown against Real Madrid

Barcelona confirmed on Friday that Garcia’s operation had been a success, though the recovery period will dictate just how many matches he misses. The injury is similar to the one suffered by team-mate Gavi earlier this week, although the damage was far more severe in the midfielder’s case as he has been ruled out for up to five months. Garcia’s prognosis is less drastic, but even four weeks on the sidelines leaves little margin before El Clasico scheduled on October 26. Six weeks out would all but guarantee his absence for the high-voltage fixture.

Since arriving from city rivals Espanyol, Garcia had wasted no time cementing his place as Barca’s number one. Handed the gloves by Flick from day one, he started every match of the new campaign and quickly won over the fans with his command in goal. Conceding only five goals in seven league appearances, the Spaniard was lauded for his shot-stopping and composure, though he did draw criticism on Thursday after a loose pass led to Oviedo’s opener. Flick, however, defended his young goalkeeper, praising his overall form and leadership from the back.

The setback means Wojciech Szczesny will be thrust back into the starting XI. The experienced Pole, who had already proven his worth last season during Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s spell out with injury, now has another chance to be Barca’s guardian between the sticks.

Speaking at Saturday’s press conference, Flick struck a defiant tone despite the blow.

"It’s not good news to have Joan Garcia out, he was fine. He got injured in the last game against Oviedo, but these things happen," he said. "Now, Tek is back, and if you look at the second half of last season, we won almost every game with Szczesny; he was there, and we won three titles with him. He’s a great goalkeeper, a great person, and I have no doubt about him.”

Barcelona will at least find some relief in the timing of the international break, which eases the fixture congestion during Garcia’s rehabilitation. Garcia is already ruled out of the Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, a game that will go a long way to shaping Barca’s European ambitions. He will miss La Liga games against Real Sociedad, Sevilla and Girona, at least, before the Madrid match in late-October.