Barça left Vallecas with a draw that feels insufficient at the start of this season. Flick's team showed doubts again away from Camp Nou, letting two key points slip away. The main protagonist was Joan García, the Barça goalkeeper and the undisputed MVP of a collectively lackluster match.
The Catalan goalkeeper delivered a true display of saves to keep the team afloat in critical moments. His interventions proved decisive in preventing Rayo Vallecano from taking more than a draw. However, his individual performance couldn't hide the shortcomings that Barça showed in Vallecas.
A draw that feels like a defeat
Flick's plan raised doubts again at a stadium that always proves difficult for Barça. There was possession and territorial dominance, but ideas were lacking in the final yards to break down Rayo's wall. The draw ended up feeling more like a defeat than anything else for the traveling fans.
Meanwhile, Joan García became the lifeline for a disconnected and uninspired Barça. His reflexes on the line and his ability to come out for aerial balls made the difference. Every save was celebrated like a goal, showing his growing importance within Flick's system.
The goalkeeper's message
After the match, Joan García was self-critical about Barça's current situation in La Liga.
"Before the international break, we planned to get nine out of nine, but it wasn't possible," he said in the mixed zone. He added: "It's harder to start with three matches away from home, but we're disappointed all the same."
His message reflects the frustration of a locker room that hasn't met its initial objectives. Flick had set a perfect start as a condition to build confidence in the new project. However, the draws have halted the euphoria and exposed the lack of continuity.
An unexpected leading role
García arrived at Barça's goal with the difficult task of competing in a demanding position. Despite his young age, he's establishing himself as one of the best developments at the start of the season. Against Rayo, he made it clear that he has the personality and quality to take on a leading role.
The goalkeeper has shown character in matches of maximum tension and has replied when the team needed him most. Flick values him more and more, aware that his reliability gives confidence to the entire defensive line. In Vallecas, even the opponents acknowledged his great performance despite the draw.
Now Barça faces an international break that will serve to correct mistakes and recover important players. The goal will be to regain defensive solidity and improve finishing in the final yards. Flick knows he can't rely solely on the han