New FC Barcelona signing Dominik Livakovic just landed a massive call-up to the Croatia national team for their next four Nations League fixtures. This isn’t just another international break for the veteran goalkeeper. Croatia manager Slaven Bilic has brought him into the squad at a crucial moment as Livakovic battles for playing time at Barça under Hansi Flick, making these matches essential for his competitive sharpness.
Livakovic Gets Ready to Rumble
This international window is going to be demanding, no doubt about it. Croatia is set to kick things off on September 26 against the Czech Republic in Prague. Just three days later, on September 29, they’re heading to Seville to face Spain. Then, Livakovic and his squad will host England in Rijeka on October 3, before wrapping up this international run with another showdown against Spain on October 6, this time in Split. Livakovic, who absolutely crushed it for Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is firmly in Bilic’s plans. This is huge for a keeper who recently joined Barcelona and has yet to make his debut for the Catalan club. He needs to play, and this is his shot.
Bilic Isn’t Pulling Any Punches
Croatia boss Slaven Bilic made it clear what’s at stake after announcing the squad. He told SPORT that he and Livakovic have spoken twice. “We spoke, he called me twice. He asked for my opinion and, from my side, I told him he has nothing to prove,” Bilic explained. He even dropped a truth bomb: “No Croatian goalkeeper has ever gone to such a big club.” But Bilic also stressed the flip side, which is crucial for any keeper. “On the other hand, you have to play. As a second goalkeeper, you get rotated, you’re there and you have to be constantly ready.” Livakovic definitely has credit in the bank with the national team thanks to his stellar performances over recent years, even when he wasn’t playing at Girona. But, as Bilic put it, “But you have to play.”
Reunions and Rivalries on the Horizon
This busy schedule isn’t just about getting Livakovic sharp; it’s also going to be a chance for some early Barcelona reunions on the international stage. He’ll be squaring off against several of his new Barça teammates, specifically the Spanish internationals, in both matches against Spain in Seville and Split. Plus, there’s the added intrigue of potentially facing Anthony Gordon when Croatia goes up against England in Rijeka. So, get ready to see Livakovic in action. These upcoming Nations League games are his proving ground before he steps onto the pitch for Barcelona. It’s go time!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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