Barcelona coach Hansi Flick lauded Joan Garcia as one of the world’s top goalkeepers after the former Espanyol man produced a match-winning performance in Saturday’s Catalan derby.

Garcia played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s 2-0 victory, making a string of brilliant saves as the league leaders extended their lead at the top of La Liga to 49 points.

“The first thing I have to do is thank Joan Garcia,” Flick told reporters. “He is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. We were tested, but we took the three points, and that is the message we send to La Liga.”

Flick also praised Garcia’s composure under pressure, particularly given the hostile reception he faced returning to the RCDE Stadium, where he came through Espanyol’s youth ranks.

“Fantastic,” the German manager said when asked about Garcia’s mental strength. “I think he will not forget what he experienced here. He played for Espanyol, who gave him his opportunity. Now he plays for us, and he was one of the key reasons we won.”

Garcia endured jeers throughout the warm-up, with banners in the stands depicting rats and mock banknotes bearing his face. Flick revealed the 24-year-old remained unshaken.

“Of course I spoke with him,” Flick said. “He was calm, as always—focused and confident. Great teams have the best goalkeepers, and he is one of them.”

Espanyol coach Manolo Gonzalez, whose side created several clear chances but could not find the net, declined to comment on Garcia’s performance.

“I’m not going to talk about Joan,” Gonzalez said. “Whatever I say will be twisted. We were very close to winning, and it slipped away… today we should have won.”

Looking ahead to the Super Cup, Flick said the derby win would provide a morale boost for Barcelona ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Athletic Bilbao.

“It’s not easy after the Christmas break to play this match and then go straight into the Super Cup,” the German said. “But this victory will give us confidence.”