Barcelona youngster eyes loan exit amid reluctance to continue as third-choice

The Catalans currently have doubts about Kochen being prepared to assume the role of the first team’s backup goalkeeper and feel he needs more experience under his belt before he is given such assurance.

At this moment, they do not see him as prepared to replace Joan Garcia in case of any injury or setback. Barcelona, thus, hope for him to be the third-choice goalkeeper.

But Kochen prefers going out on loan if he is not given the second-choice position in the first team, as he feels his stage with Barça Atletic has come to an end.

A difficult decision

As it stands, Kochen can only secure the role of a third goalkeeper in Hansi Flick’s plans, and even if he does accept the same, the future does not look promising.

With Joan Garcia arriving last summer and given the performances he has been delivering, it goes without saying that the player is here to stay in the long run as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Kochen is currently third-choice behind Garcia and Szczesny. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Szszesny, too, is set to stay for one more year, meaning the second-choice spot will also be covered for next season.

A loan move, thus, might make sense for Barcelona and Kochen, although the player must also consider his prospects in the long run, considering Garcia will carry on as the team’s No. 1 for years to come.