.jfif)
The persistence of Joan García has finally been rewarded. On Friday, March 20, 2026, Luis de la Fuente announced his 27-man Spain squad for the final international window before the World Cup, and the FC Barcelona goalkeeper is the name on everyone’s lips.
After a spectacular season at the Camp Nou following his move from Espanyol, the 24-year-old shot-stopper has officially been called up to the senior team for the first time. He joins a goalkeeping unit that includes Unai Simón, David Raya, and Álex Remiro.
The Stats: Why De la Fuente Could No Longer Ignore Him
Joan García isn't just joining the squad as a spectator; his numbers suggest he’s ready to challenge for the number one shirt.
Clean Sheet Machine: In 22 La Liga appearances this season, García has kept 11 clean sheets, conceding only 17 goals.
Shot-Stopping Elite: He currently boasts a 77.6% save percentage and has prevented nearly 8 goals more than expected based on the quality of shots faced (xGOT).
The "Sweeper" Profile: Perfectly suited for Spain's high line, García has successfully completed 44 sweeper actions this season, ranking him among the most proactive keepers in Europe.
A Homecoming Debut? The RCDE Stadium Factor
Spain’s March schedule features two high-profile friendlies, but the second fixture holds immense emotional weight for García.
March 27: Spain vs. Serbia (Estadio de la Cerámica, Villarreal)
March 31: Spain vs. Egypt (RCDE Stadium, Barcelona)
The match against Egypt will be played at the home of Espanyol—the club where García developed and became a star before his high-profile move to Barça last summer.
"He has been on our radar for a long time," Luis de la Fuente said at the announcement. "He knows our system from the U21s and the Olympics. This is a real audition for him ahead of the World Cup."
Spain Squad Highlights: The "Barça Core"
Luis de la Fuente continues to lean heavily on the "La Masia" philosophy, with seven Barcelona players included in the squad.
The Returns: Rodri and Lamine Yamal are back in the squad after missing previous windows due to injury.
New Faces: Alongside García, first-time call-ups were handed to Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera, Real Sociedad winger Ander Barrenetxea, and Osasuna forward Víctor Muñoz.
The Absence: Real Madrid legend Dani Carvajal misses out as he continues to struggle with match fitness following knee surgery.