Flick explains key selection decision for Barcelona's cup tie vs Racing: 'That's why he's playing' | Barca Universal

"Joan is the number one, and that's why he's playing; it's an important match,"

"Some players need to rest, we have to be careful with that, but everyone who plays knows the importance of the match,"

"They play very well, they have a very direct style of play and we have to be careful with this and be alert in defence."

"It's the Cup, these things happen, but let's hope it doesn't happen today."

Joan Garcia is selected as Barcelona's starting goalkeeper for the Copa del Rey Round of 16 match against Racing Santander, preferred over Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny. Six changes were made from the starting XI that faced Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final in Jeddah, with players such as Pedri, Eric Garcia, and Raphinha on the bench. Some players require rest and careful management, though every player called upon understands the importance of the match. Racing Santander employ a very direct style of play, requiring vigilance and alertness in defence. Real Madrid's recent Copa exit to Albacete is acknowledged as a cup risk, and Barcelona aim to avoid a similar upset tonight.

Read at Barca Universal