Barcelona Secure Joan García’s Season-Long Registration as Ter Stegen Weighs Winter Options

Overview

• Direct sources at Barcelona and La Liga indicate Joan García is officially registered through June with no January revocation, unlike last season’s ‘Olmo case.’
• García underwent arthroscopic surgery for a meniscus issue and is projected to miss 5–6 weeks, making a return for the October 26 Clásico unlikely.
• Hansi Flick has installed García as first choice with Wojciech Szczesny as backup, and Szczesny will start while García recovers, including the October 18 match against Girona.
• Marc-André ter Stegen is in the final stage of recovery from July back surgery and is expected to be cleared in late November or December, with Barcelona signaling only limited cup minutes if he stays.
• Ter Stegen faces pressure to secure regular playing time before the World Cup, with reported interest from Premier League and Bundesliga clubs and a decision targeted for December; Szczesny publicly suggested a departure could suit all parties.