Girona Face Goalkeeping Crisis as Livakovic Prioritises World Cup Ambitions
Girona manager Míchel has confirmed that on-loan goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic has refused to play for the club, citing his desire to keep future transfer options open in order to protect his chances of representing Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The revelation has sparked debate in Spain and left Girona dealing with a serious shortage in the goalkeeping department at a crucial stage of the season.
Livakovic, one of Croatia’s most experienced internationals, joined Girona on a season-long loan from Turkish giants Fenerbahce in September. The move followed the arrival of Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson at Fenerbahce, which reduced Livakovic’s playing time in Istanbul. Despite expectations that he would compete for the starting role in Spain, the 30-year-old has yet to make a single appearance for Girona.
Instead, Argentine goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga has remained Míchel’s first-choice, featuring regularly despite fitness concerns. According to the Girona coach, Livakovic made it clear from early on that his priorities lay elsewhere.
“Dominik is a fantastic professional and a good person,” Míchel said. “But his personal objectives do not align with Girona’s needs at this moment. His focus is on securing regular playing time to ensure he is selected for the World Cup, not on committing fully to Girona.”
FIFA Registration Rules Complicate Situation
At the heart of the issue are FIFA’s player registration regulations, which state that a footballer may be registered with up to three clubs in one season but can only appear competitively for two. Livakovic has already featured twice for Fenerbahce earlier this campaign, meaning that if he played for Girona, he would be unable to represent another club should he secure a January move.
Míchel revealed that Livakovic was honest about his intentions and personally explained his stance to the coaching staff.
“He told me directly that he didn’t want to play here,” the Girona manager explained. “He said that if he played for Girona, it would close the door to another move that could help his international future. I appreciate his honesty, but it puts the club in a very difficult position.”
Reuters has contacted Livakovic’s representatives for comment, but no official response has yet been issued.
Copa del Rey Incident Highlights Tensions
The situation escalated earlier this month during Girona’s Copa del Rey defeat to third-tier side Ourense, a match in which Livakovic was expected to start. However, according to Míchel, the Croatian goalkeeper refused to play, forcing Gazzaniga to step in despite suffering from illness.
“He was scheduled to play, but he told me he wouldn’t,” Míchel said. “Gazzaniga ended up playing with the flu and a fever of nearly 38 degrees. Right now, I only have one available goalkeeper, and that is a major problem until the winter transfer window opens.”
The incident has intensified scrutiny on Livakovic’s loan spell and raised questions about whether Girona should seek an early termination of the agreement.
Girona’s Struggles Add Pressure
The timing could hardly be worse for Girona. After finishing an impressive third in LaLiga during the 2023–24 season, the club has struggled badly this campaign. They currently sit 18th in the standings with just 12 points, firmly entrenched in the relegation zone.
With defensive stability already an issue, the lack of depth in goal only compounds Girona’s problems. Supporters have expressed frustration, not only with results on the pitch but also with the uncertainty surrounding key squad positions.
Míchel acknowledged the challenge but insisted the club must remain focused.
“We cannot afford distractions,” he said. “Every player must be fully committed. Girona is fighting for survival, and we need people who are ready to give everything for the badge.”
Livakovic’s International Importance
Livakovic’s concern over his World Cup prospects is understandable given his status within the Croatian national team. He has earned 71 international caps and was a key figure in Croatia’s run to the 2018 World Cup final, as well as their third-place finish in 2022.
With competition for the number-one spot intensifying ahead of the next tournament, Livakovic is eager to ensure consistent playing time at club level. However, his decision to refuse selection has sparked criticism, with some pundits questioning whether personal ambitions should override contractual obligations.
January Window Could Bring Resolution
Girona are now expected to explore options in the January transfer window, either by bringing in another goalkeeper or finding a solution to the Livakovic situation. There is also speculation that Fenerbahce may recall the player if a suitable move materialises elsewhere.
For now, Míchel is forced to rely heavily on Gazzaniga, hoping the experienced keeper can remain fit as the club battles to climb out of danger.
The saga highlights the complex balance between player ambition and club loyalty in modern football—particularly during major tournament cycles.
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