Joan Garcia claims number 1 shirt as Barcelona finalize squad numbers
As Barcelona prepares for the start of a new season, the club has begun the process of assigning squad numbers. The most significant change comes in the goalkeeping department following the departure of Marc-André ter Stegen to Ajax.
Joan Garcia, who is currently the preferred starting option for manager Hansi Flick, has officially taken over the #1 shirt. According to the La Liga website, Garcia has moved from the #13 he wore last season to the prestigious number one spot.
This shift has created a ripple effect in the squad numbering. Wojciech Szczęsny, who previously wore #25, is now set to take over the #13 shirt vacated by Garcia.
New Signings and Potential Assignments
Several new arrivals are yet to be assigned official numbers on the league website. Anthony Gordon, who wore #10 at Newcastle United and #18 for England, will need a new number as both are currently unavailable. Karim Adeyemi is expected to take #14, a number he has already worn during a friendly match against Nottingham Forest.
Jesse Bisiwu, who wore #74 in a friendly, will require a number under 50 to comply with La Liga regulations; his previous number #42 at Club Brugge is a potential candidate. Additionally, Héctor Fort, returning from a loan spell at Elche, is awaiting his official assignment.
Future Transfers and Availability
With the transfer window still active, several numbers remain open for potential arrivals. Reports suggest João Cancelo could return to the #2 shirt he wore last season. There is also speculation regarding Rodri, though his current Manchester City number (#16) is already held by Fermín López.
Depending on further departures, such as the rumored exit of Ferran Torres, the #7 shirt could become available. Furthermore, any new striker signing could potentially inherit the #9 shirt currently worn by Robert Lewandowski.
Current available senior team shirts include 4, 12, 15, and 25, adhering to La Liga's cap of 25 for senior players.