Flick hails Joan Garcia, Araujo after Barca edge Rayo

Hansi Flick said goalkeeper Joan Garcia was signed for the sort of performance he put in during Barcelona's cagey 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.

Garcia has enjoyed a fine season at Camp Nou, earning international recognition with a first call-up for Spain ahead of their upcoming games against Serbia and Egypt.

The 24-year-old made four saves against Rayo as Barca opened up a seven-point gap over Real Madrid, albeit Los Blancos face Atletico Madrid later on Sunday, with Blaugrana captain Ronald Araujo scoring the only goal. 

There was one particularly fine stop from Garcia to deny Jorge de Frutos late on, with Barca boss Flick giving his shot-stopper due credit after the game.

"We signed him for these kinds of performances. It's important to keep a clean sheet," Flick said.

"I'm happy for him. He deserves to be in the national team.

"He's been very good. Fantastic, that's what he came for. Today he demonstrated his qualities and strengths once again."

Araujo has featured prominently since the turn of the year, having taken an extended break at the end of 2025 after suffering from depression.

Flick thinks the goal will give the Uruguay defender great confidence for the coming weeks.

"It's important for him, for the team, and for everyone," Flick added.

"He has shown consistency and has scored. He is important on corners. The goal will give him confidence."

On his team's general performance, Flick said: "We had to be focused from the start. They had a great opportunity. They played very well. We also had chances. 

"They played another great match against us. We've played a lot of matches since January. I really value the team's performance."

Barca are not back in action until April 4, when they travel to face Atleti at the Estadio Metropolitano.