Joan García Pons

Joan García Pons is a Spanish goalkeeper from Sallent, born on 4 May 2001, who developed through CE Sallent, CE Manresa and CF Damm before joining Espanyol’s academy at 15. He initially played as an outfielder, switching to goalkeeping after encouragement from his older brother. García made his senior debut for Espanyol B in September 2019 and reached the first team in December 2021, appearing in a Copa del Rey win before making his La Liga debut the following month. After serving mainly as a backup in 2022–23, he became Espanyol’s regular goalkeeper in March 2024, recording 12 clean sheets in 21 Segunda División appearances. His performances helped Espanyol win promotion through the play-offs, and he was named the club’s Player of the Season. García also represented Spain at youth level and was part of the team that won Olympic gold in Paris in 2024. In June 2025, he joined Barcelona, adding a new chapter to his rise through Spanish football.