Joan Garcia explains why Barcelona’s high defensive line suits him: ‘I like helping the team in different situations’

Joan Garcia explains why Barcelona’s high defensive line suits him: ‘I like helping the team in different situations’ Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia has explained why he feels comfortable playing behind Hansi Flick’s high defensive line , insisting that the tactical risks are justified by the benefits it brings to the team.  Speaking to Mundo Deportivo during his return to the Spain national team camp, the goalkeeper discussed his responsibilities at Barcelona, his approach to playing as a sweeper and his relationship with David Raya and Unai Simon. Garcia missed Spain’s previous international break but has returned after establishing himself as an important figure for Barcelona.  His performance in the recent victory over Atletico Madrid further demonstrated the importance of his role in Flick’s system, where the goalkeeper must remain alert to opposition attacks played behind the defensive line. Joan Garcia embraces the demands of Flick’s defensive system Barcelona’s high defensive line requires Garcia to operate beyond the traditional responsibilities of a goalkeeper.  He must read through balls, anticipate opposition movements and provide cover whenever defenders are caught out of position. Asked about the demands of the system, Garcia explained why he enjoys having such responsibilities. “With the style we play, the goalkeeper has to be focused and alert to help out wherever he can. In that respect, I feel comfortable. I like helping the team in different situations. Joan Garcia needs to stay extra vigilant due to Barcelona’s high line. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) “Indeed, it involves a huge risk, but I think that in the end it’s proved to be worth it, that it works, and I’m happy to be able to help.” The Barcelona goalkeeper then acknowledged that mistakes are an unavoidable possibility when playing so aggressively, but believes the overall benefits outweigh the risks. “In the heat of the moment you don’t think about it; you’re focused on doing your best. “It’s true that one day there’ll probably be a situation I wouldn’t like, but I think that, if you weigh it up, it’ll turn out well far more often: you’ll save a chance far more often than you’ll make a mistake.” Spain competition motivates Garcia to improve Garcia has also returned to a particularly competitive goalkeeping environment with Spain.  David Raya and Unai Simon are among the established options, while Alvaro Valles has joined the group as well. Rather than viewing the competition negatively, the Barcelona goalkeeper believes training alongside such players offers an opportunity to develop further. Joan Garcia is relishing the competition at the national team setup. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) “I think that speaks volumes about the standard of work in Spain’s youth academies. Now Alvaro [Valles] has joined us too; he’s a brilliant goalkeeper, and he’s proving it as well. “I’m really happy to share the dressing room with them, to train with them and to keep improving.” Garcia highlights strong relationship with Raya and Simon The Barcelona goalkeeper also spoke about the atmosphere among Spain’s goalkeepers, particularly after Simon acknowledged him and Raya during his Ballon d’Or speech. Garcia revealed that the recognition meant a great deal to both players, highlighting the positive relationships they have developed away from the pitch. “The reaction was very positive. Ultimately, this isn’t so much about what happens on the pitch, but about the people and the relationships you build off it. “I think we have a really good, lovely relationship. Both David and I were almost as delighted as if we’d won the award ourselves. I think that speaks volumes about the three of us. “Then, of course, on the pitch, the standards are extremely high. We all give our all, and that shows in the matches too,” he concluded.