Flick makes final decision on Livaković’s future after weighing a dozen options

Dominik Livaković will remain at Barcelona this season, accepting the risk that he may begin the campaign as a reserve goalkeeper.

Coach Hansi Flick decided, in agreement with Livaković, not to send him on an uncertain loan despite having around a dozen options. Flick wants to keep the Croatian under observation, integrate him into the Barcelona squad and use him if circumstances create an opportunity.

The club’s first-choice goalkeeper is 25-year-old Spaniard Joan García. Livaković shares an equal standing in the squad with 36-year-old Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, leaving him facing a reserve role for the first time in his club career. He may not play before Croatia’s September international matches.

Croatian goalkeeper-coach Toni Tapalović may also have been consulted, giving Livaković an important Croatian-speaking contact in the dressing room. The decision makes Livaković the first Croatian goalkeeper in Barcelona’s 126-year history, while leaving open the possibility that he could eventually challenge for the starting role.