Barcelona’s goalkeeping mystery as teenage talent vanishes from official roster on La Liga website | OneFootball

Barcelona’s goalkeeping situation has taken an unexpected twist ahead of their La Liga 2025/26 opener against Mallorca.

According to Mundo Deportivo, young goalkeeper Diego Kochen was briefly listed on the official squad for the league, as number 31 alongside Inaki Pena, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen appeared without an assigned number.

Surprisingly, Kochen’s name soon disappeared from the list, leaving fans and media puzzled over what had happened.

It is to be noted that the club is currently facing registration challenges with several players, including Joan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, and Marcus Rashford.

With the opening game against Mallorca fast approaching, the uncertainty over these registrations has made the goalkeeper situation even more complicated.

Kochen’s brief appearance on the squad list raised questions, especially as it suggested he could be part of the matchday setup.

Flick wants Kochen as third-choice goalkeeper

Although Kochen is not officially registered with La Liga, there is still a strong possibility he will be included in the squad to face Mallorca.

Diego Kochen’s name briefly appeared on Barcelona’s website. (Source: Mundo Deportivo)

As such, manager Hansi Flick is keen to have three goalkeepers available in case of any last-minute setbacks.

So if Szczesny’s registration is not completed in time, Kochen is expected to step in as the third option behind Joan Garcia and Inaki Pena.

Because Kochen is a reserve team player under 23 years old, he can feature for the first team without a formal first-team registration.

Crucial minutes in pre-season

The 19-year-old American has already gained valuable experience, having toured Asia with Barcelona during pre-season and even playing a few minutes in the 5-0 friendly win against Daegu FC.

For the season ahead, Kochen is expected to remain the first-choice goalkeeper for Barça Atletic while also acting as the senior team’s third-choice keeper.

His sudden appearance and disappearance from the La Liga squad list might remain a mystery, but one thing is clear that Barcelona see him as an important part of their plans for both the present and future.