Highly-rated Barcelona teenage starlet in line for surprise debut against Mallorca | OneFootball

Barcelona are facing a serious dilemma in their goalkeeping department as the start of the 2025/26 La Liga season approaches.

In turn, according to a fresh report from SPORT, 19-year-old Diego Kochen could be in line for a shock senior debut against Mallorca, with the club running out of options between the sticks.

At present, Hansi Flick has made it clear that Joan Garcia is his first-choice goalkeeper, with Wojciech Szczesny expected to serve as the backup after renewing his contract.

However, neither player has been registered with La Liga yet due to the club’s ongoing financial struggles. As the clock ticks down, the situation is becoming increasingly tense.

Situation in favour of Kochen

Marc-Andre ter Stegen, once the undisputed starter, is currently in conflict with the club and is not expected to feature anytime soon. Meanwhile, Inaki Pena is likely to leave before the new season begins, further complicating matters.

Diego Kochen could make his senior team debut against Mallorca. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

In this context, Kochen has emerged as the only available goalkeeper. The young American was preferred over Pena in Barcelona’s final match of their pre-season tour in Asia, where he got minutes ahead of the more experienced shot-stopper.

That decision by Flick might have been more than just a tactical choice, as it could be a clear indication of what’s to come.

Has trained with the first team

Kochen, who has been involved in 29 first-team call-ups and numerous training sessions, is no stranger to the senior environment.

He has even received four call-ups to the USMNT under Mauricio Pochettino and is seen as a serious candidate for the 2026 World Cup.

Despite his youth, Kochen might be the only realistic option if registrations are not sorted in time.

Flick is aiming to begin the season strong and will want to avoid unnecessary risks, but with limited options, he may have no choice but to trust the teenager in goal.