Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has spoken candidly about his eventful summer, during which rumors of a high-profile move to Arsenal dominated headlines.
Joan Garcia Reflects on Arsenal Transfer Saga and Espanyol’s Struggles
Despite intense speculation, the proposed transfer collapsed, leaving Garcia to focus on solidifying his place at Espanyol.
Arsenal reportedly identified Garcia as a replacement for Aaron Ramsdale, who departed for Southampton after losing his starting spot to David Raya.
Sources from Spain suggested the Gunners had even agreed personal terms with Garcia over a £25 million transfer.
However, negotiations faltered as Arsenal failed to meet Espanyol’s financial demands, leading the North London club to instead secure a season-long loan for Bournemouth’s Neto.
For Garcia, the whirlwind of transfer talks was a challenge.
“I tried to isolate myself from everything that was being said,” he revealed in an interview with Marca.
“I had been given the opportunity to do something I had been fighting for — to be Espanyol’s starting goalkeeper. I couldn’t waste this opportunity.”
Now firmly Espanyol’s first choice, Garcia has started all but one of their La Liga matches this season.
Despite the transfer saga, the 23-year-old remains focused on his current role, saying, “I think I’m handling it well. I cannot control what happens, and it’s not affecting me. Whatever will be, will be.”
Garcia, who also clinched a gold medal with Spain at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is under contract with Espanyol until 2028.
While Espanyol’s sporting director, Fran Garagarza, hasn’t ruled out a future move, Garcia insists his attention is on helping the team recover from their current struggles.
The Catalan side sits in 18th place ahead of a crucial match against Girona this weekend.
“Personally, I think I’m doing well, but I know I can do better,” Garcia admitted.
“As a team, we are determined to climb out of this position. We’ve used the break wisely, and now is the moment to step up.”
Though his Arsenal dream remains on hold, Garcia’s resilience and dedication suggest his future is still bright.
For now, his focus remains unwavering: lifting Espanyol out of trouble and continuing to grow as a player.
