Livaković still trusted by Croatia despite waiting for his Barcelona debut

Dominik Livaković is yet to play a competitive minute for FC Barcelona, but his lack of club action has not cost him Croatia’s confidence. Slaven Bilić has included the 31-year-old in his squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures and reportedly intends to keep him as his starting goalkeeper.

BARCELONA PROVIDED PRESTIGE, NOT MINUTES

Livaković joined Barcelona on a contract running until 2030. He entered a crowded goalkeeping department featuring Joan García and Wojciech Szczęsny, so immediate first-team football was never guaranteed.

The early hierarchy has been clear. Joan García remains the first choice, while Livaković continues to wait for his debut. According to “Mundo Deportivo”, the Croatian is also competing with Szczęsny for the backup position.

Barcelona were able to unveil another experienced international and celebrate greater squad depth. That message works perfectly during a presentation. Matchday is less accommodating: only one goalkeeper can start, and so far Livaković has been watching from the sidelines.

BILIĆ PRAISES THE MOVE BUT WANTS HIM TO PLAY

Bilić has defended his goalkeeper and highlighted the stature of his new club.

“He has nothing to explain. No Croatian goalkeeper has ever joined such a big club,” the Croatia coach said, as quoted by “Mundo Deportivo”.

There was, however, an important qualification. Bilić also expressed hope that Livaković would receive playing time in Barcelona. The badge may strengthen the transfer narrative, but it cannot provide match sharpness on its own.

CROATIA ARE RELYING ON HIS EXPERIENCE

Livaković’s international position has been built over several years. He has represented Croatia at three World Cups and two European Championships, giving Bilić a substantial body of evidence on which to base his decision.

Croatia face four UEFA Nations League matches in a demanding schedule: away fixtures against the Czech Republic and Spain, followed by home games against England and Spain. Spanish reports indicate that Bilić plans to retain Livaković in goal, including for the meeting with Spain.

That trust reflects what the goalkeeper has previously delivered for his country. It should not be mistaken for proof that spending matches on Barcelona’s bench is an ideal long-term arrangement.

INTERNATIONAL TRUST IS NOT A PERMANENT SOLUTION

A call-up ends the immediate debate, but it does not remove the underlying issue. A goalkeeper can retain his international place through experience and credit accumulated over earlier tournaments. If the lack of club football continues, current form and rhythm will eventually become harder to assess.

For now, Livaković remains Croatia’s trusted goalkeeper and a candidate for Barcelona’s bench. The club can describe its depth as a luxury. Bilić, despite praising the transfer, will still want his number one to do more than train at an elite address.