The relief in the Barcelona camp was palpable, and the tributes to Garcia were effusive. The 24-year-old, who joined the club in the summer of 2025, has firmly established himself as a key pillar of Flick's side. His teammates were quick to highlight not just his save against Racing, but his consistent impact throughout the campaign.
Marc Casado, handed a rare start in midfield, did not hold back in his assessment of the goalkeeper’s quality. "Joan Garcia is incredible," Casado told reporters. "He gives us points in La Liga and today he almost gives us the tie. He’s the best in the world."
Casado also referenced Garcia’s dominant display in the Catalan derby earlier this month, where he kept a clean sheet against his former club Espanyol in a 2-0 win. That performance, combined with his heroics in Santander, has cemented his status as a fan favourite.
Cubarsi, whose error nearly gifted Racing the equaliser, was particularly relieved. The young defender acknowledged the safety net Garcia provides for the team’s high defensive line. "It’s good to have a goalkeeper like Joan who saves you," Cubarsi admitted, thankful that his mistake ultimately went unpunished.