De la Fuente praised Joan Garcia's abilities as becoming more mature.

Spain, nicknamed the "La Roja," will face Iraq in a friendly match as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Head coach De la Fuente stated that Joan Garcia has matured and has no doubt about the goalkeeper's abilities.

25-year-old goalkeeper Joan Garcia plays for La Liga giants Barcelona and made 30 appearances for Flick's team in the 2025/26 La Liga season, helping the team win the La Liga title.

In terms of Spain's squad, the goalkeepers who have also been called up to the Spanish national team include Unai Simón and David Layja, the goalkeeper of Arsenal who won the Premier League title, so Joan García faces very fierce competition.

Spain coach De la Fuente said, "Actually, we've known Joan García for a long time. He has never caused us any controversy or doubt. He made his debut when I was coaching the Spanish U21 national team. The national team coaching staff at all levels have always had high hopes for him, but at certain times, there were some more experienced and important goalkeepers ahead of him."

“This is not a big problem. He has reached a very mature stage and plays for a demanding club like Barcelona. He also won the Zamora Trophy, which of course is inseparable from the help of his teammates. His mature performance has also earned him a place in the national team. He has never given us any doubt, whether from a personal or footballing perspective.”

When discussing Barcelona's emphasis on developing young players, De la Fuente said, "That's Barcelona. Looking back at their history, they have always valued youth training, constantly nurturing excellent players and giving these young people the opportunity to showcase their football talents at a very young age."

"This is a club culture, and other clubs in Spain follow the same philosophy. Of course, some clubs choose different development paths, which is equally respectable. For everyone who loves youth football, we are happy about this investment in developing young players."

De la Fuente also stated, "Teams like Athletic Bilbao, Real Sociedad, Valencia, and Celta Vigo are all placing great emphasis on the development of young players. I will always choose to believe in them; they never disappoint. Given the opportunity, Spanish players are undoubtedly among the best in the world in terms of being nurtured and developed."

Image source: Internet