Dominik Livakovic talks life in Barcelona, training and game-time under Flick
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Dominik Livakovic was somewhat of a surprise signing for Barcelona when the club roped him in the summer for a fee of just €2 million.
It was an investment made keeping in mind Wojciech Szczesny’s future, with Livakovic immediately being promoted as the main alternative to Joan Garcia.
Currently on duty with the Croatian national team, Livakovic has opened up about his time at Barcelona so far, including his lack of game-time among other things.
Livakovic on game-time at Barcelona
Livakovic has won 84 caps for Croatia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Livakovic was asked whether or not his lack of minutes at Barcelona affects his standing in the Croatian national team.
“I play for Barcelona. I’m just a young man from Zadar, and I’m very proud of that. I’ve already kept goal for this great club. I train and wait for my chance, and I feel like I’m in good shape,” he said (h/t Diario SPORT).
Livakovic, who started in the recent game against England, went on to describe the training process at Barcelona, which he labelled tough. The goalkeeper added that he is waiting for his chance to impress.
“Training at Barcelona really is very tough, because we’re talking about the best players in the world. It would be ideal to play in goal in every match, but I’m waiting patiently for my chance,” he added.
Livakovic has so far made only one appearance for Barcelona since joining the club in the summer. That lone appearance came against Sevilla earlier in the campaign.
Livakovic on being awarded Fiery Heart trophy
Livakovic is regarded highly in Croatian football. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, it was a special day for Livakovic as he was awarded the Fiery Heart trophy for his selfless service to the Croatian national team.
Speaking about the accolade, the goalkeeper said, “This award has made me very happy, because it comes from the fans who give football its passion and special emotions.“
“I truly care, from the bottom of my heart, about the national team’s success, and I’m happy that the fans recognized that and appreciated it in this way.“
Livakovic added that it’s an honour to follow in the footsteps of Croatian legends such as Ivan Perisic and Luka Modric, previous recipients of the award.
“It’s wonderful to follow in the footsteps of Luka and Perišić, who won this award before me, and that alone shows its value.
“I thank everyone who took part in the voting, and I extend a special thank-you to all the fans who continue to support us, whether things are going well or we’re going through tougher times,” he concluded.