FC Barcelona has confirmed that Joan Garcia underwent surgery this Saturday for a tear in the internal meniscus of his left knee. The operation, performed by Dr. Joan Carles Monllau, was completed without complications and it is estimated that the goalkeeper from Sallent will be out for between four and six weeks.

The Azulgrana goalkeeper suffered the injury in the final moments of the match against Real Oviedo at the Carlos Tartiere, after a bad movement with his knee. Despite the discomfort, he was able to finish the match, although subsequent medical tests confirmed the severity of the ailment.

Joan García: expected recovery of 4-6 weeks

According to the club's medical services, the intervention went as planned, without surprises, which is good news for the coaching staff. Unlike what happened months ago with Gavi's injury, on this occasion the initial diagnosis was confirmed and no additional complications arose.

The estimated recovery time is between four and six weeks, which practically rules out the goalkeeper for the next Clásico against Real Madrid. If the deadlines are met, Joan Garcia could reappear in late October or early November.

Szczesny will assume the title

With the young goalkeeper out, Wojciech Szczesny will be in charge of guarding the Azulgrana goal in the coming weeks. The Polish international already had minutes against Oviedo and has the confidence of coach Hansi Flick.

Szczesny's experience will be key in a demanding stretch of the season, with commitments in LaLiga and the Champions League. His performance will be decisive for Barça to maintain its competitive level while Joan Garcia recovers.

The matches that Joan Garcia will miss

If the period of absence is confirmed, the goalkeeper would miss at least five official matches, including high-level clashes. The club is already working with the aim of him reappearing as soon as possible, although without forcing the established medical deadlines.

  1. LaLiga: Real Sociedad (Montjuïc) – September 28
  2. Champions League: Feyenoord (Rotterdam) – October 1
  3. LaLiga: Real Betis (Seville) – October 5
  4. LaLiga: Villarreal (Montjuïc) – October 19
  5. LaLiga: Real Madrid (Santiago Bernabéu) – October 26

Despite the setback, the club is confident of having Joan Garcia in the final stretch of autumn, coinciding with key weeks of the season.

Another blow for the Barça infirmary

Joan Garcia's injury adds to an infirmary that already had important players such as Raphinha, Lamine Yamal or Alejandro Balde. This scenario forces Flick to manage the squad with special care and to give prominence to players from the bench and the reserve team.

Barça faces one of the most demanding phases of the season with several important absentees. However, the squad has sufficient resources to compete in all competitions, with Szczesny and the young Diego Kochen as alternatives under the sticks.