Flick supports Garcia in ignoring Espanyol fan hostility for Barcelona derby

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed support for Joan Garcia on Friday, urging him to handle the anticipated aggression in this weekends derby against Espanyol, marking the goalkeepers initial comeback to the clubs fierce local competitors following his summer move.

The 24 year old keeper sparked outrage among Espanyol supporters upon signing with the prominent neighbours in June for approximately 26 million euros.

A charged environment is anticipated on Saturday as Garcia returns to the RCDE Stadium, where a victory could position the reigning La Liga title holders provisionally seven points ahead of Real Madrid in the standings.

Espanyol has enhanced security measures for the match, adding nets behind each goal to block thrown items at the players and prohibiting access to any supporter displaying or possessing Barcelona insignia.

When questioned on the potential effect on Garcia, who has solidified his role as Barcelonas primary goalkeeper since his arrival, Flick informed journalists that he held "no concerns" regarding his performer.

"He possesses the assurance, you trust in his abilities and his skill, and this is precisely what he aims to demonstrate, with tomorrow offering the ideal opportunity," the German tactician remarked.

"He remains concentrated on the circumstances, and it shows. He delivered an outstanding first half season at Barcelona, proving the signing choice was spot on."

This Barcelona clash, typically dominated by one side as Espanyol have not triumphed at home in La Liga since 2007, promises to be closely contested.

Espanyol, who barely avoided the drop last season, are experiencing one of their strongest campaigns recently, holding fifth place after securing victories in their previous five league outings.

Flick praised his counterpart Manolo Gonzalez, noting that Barcelona must "perform at our peak" to secure the win.