According to a report by Barca Universal on Thursday, November 12, 2026, Croatia manager Slaven Bilic has raised concerns about Dominik Livakovic’s limited playing time at Barcelona, insisting that the goalkeeper needs regular competitive appearances despite being part of a top European club.

Livakovic moved to Barcelona during the summer transfer window in a deal reportedly worth around €2 million plus add-ons. The Croatian signed a contract that keeps him at the Catalan club until 2030.

His arrival was intended to strengthen Barcelona’s goalkeeping options and provide dependable cover for Joan Garcia. However, the 31-year-old has found opportunities difficult to come by, with Garcia firmly occupying the starting position under manager Hansi Flick.

So far, Livakovic has featured only once for the Spanish champions, making his sole appearance in their encounter with Sevilla. His lack of involvement has attracted attention from the Croatian national team, particularly as the country prepares for its forthcoming international assignments.

Speaking ahead of Croatia’s fixtures during the current international break, Bilic admitted that the goalkeeper’s situation was not ideal.

“It’s not good that he doesn’t play. He can train very well in Barcelona, but he needs minutes,” the Croatia manager said.

Bilic recognised the benefits of Livakovic working alongside some of Europe’s finest players at Barcelona, noting that the quality of the club’s training sessions could help him maintain his standards.

He also mentioned teenage winger Lamine Yamal while describing the level of competition the goalkeeper faces during training.

“They are Barcelona training sessions, where Lamine Yamal shoots you, but it is not the same. He has performed very well, but we will see what happens,” he added.

Despite his reservations, the Croatia manager confirmed that Livakovic remains involved in the national team’s plans. He stressed that the goalkeeper’s future position would be considered as the situation develops, with his lack of match action likely to remain part of the assessment.

“Livakovic is still among our internationals. In the long term, it is a question that we must value. We will decide what is best,” he stated.

Bilic also acknowledged the significance of Livakovic joining Barcelona, describing the transfer as a major milestone for a Croatian goalkeeper, although he reiterated that regular football remains essential.

“Never had a Croatian goalkeeper arrived at such a big club. But he has to play,” Bilic concluded.

For Barcelona, Livakovic’s situation could become an issue as the campaign continues. Garcia remains Flick’s preferred option between the posts, but the club will also want their backup goalkeeper to maintain his readiness in case he is needed.

The Copa del Rey could offer Livakovic a route to more first-team appearances, as Barcelona have traditionally used the competition to rotate their goalkeeping options.

Regular involvement in the domestic cup would give the Croatian valuable match practice, helping him maintain his fitness and strengthen his chances of remaining in contention for international selection.