Barcelona’s goalkeeping scenario has taken an surprising twist forward of their La Liga 2025/26 opener in opposition to Mallorca.
Based on , younger goalkeeper Diego Kochen was briefly listed on the official squad for the league, as quantity 31 alongside Inaki Pena, whereas Marc-Andre ter Stegen appeared with out an assigned quantity.
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Surprisingly, Kochen’s identify quickly disappeared from the record, leaving followers and media puzzled over what had occurred.
It’s to be famous that the membership is at present dealing with registration challenges with a number of gamers, together with Joan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, and Marcus Rashford.
With the opening recreation in opposition to Mallorca quick approaching, the uncertainty over these registrations has made the goalkeeper scenario much more difficult.
Kochen’s temporary look on the squad record raised questions, particularly because it recommended he could possibly be a part of the matchday setup.
Flick needs Kochen as third-choice goalkeeper
Though Kochen isn’t formally registered with La Liga, there’s nonetheless a powerful chance he might be included within the squad to face Mallorca.
Diego Kochen’s identify briefly appeared on Barcelona’s web site. (Supply: Mundo Deportivo)
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As such, supervisor Hansi Flick is eager to have three goalkeepers out there in case of any last-minute setbacks.
So if Szczesny’s registration isn’t accomplished in time, Kochen is anticipated to step in because the third choice behind Joan Garcia and Inaki Pena.
As a result of Kochen is a reserve group participant underneath 23 years outdated, he can function for the primary group and not using a formal first-team registration.
Essential minutes in pre-season
The 19-year-old American has already gained priceless expertise, having toured Asia with Barcelona throughout pre-season and even taking part in a couple of minutes within the 5-0 pleasant win in opposition to Daegu FC.
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For the season forward, Kochen is anticipated to stay the first-choice goalkeeper for Barça Atletic whereas additionally performing because the senior group’s third-choice keeper.
His sudden look and disappearance from the La Liga squad record may stay a thriller, however one factor is evident that Barcelona see him as an vital a part of their plans for each the current and future.