Iñaki Peña, Barcelona’s second-choice keeper, had a heated argument with coach Hansi Flick, which threatens the goalkeeper’s future at the club. Iñaki Peña became Barcelona’s first-choice after Ter-Stegen’s injury earlier in the season.
How Iñaki Peña became insecure?
Barcelona’s captain and first-choice goalkeeper Ter-Stegen suffered an injury in November against Villareal. The German goalie tore his right patellar tendon, keeping him out for 8 months to a year. Peña became the starting goalkeeper for Barcelona and performed exceptionally gaining Flick’s trust. Despite Peña’s commanding performances, Barcelona were searching for a goalie on the market.
Barcelona completed the free transfer of Polish veteran Wojciech Szczęsny. Szczęsny was brought to the club to be a backup option behind Peña, and the Polish was happy with the role, as he himself admitted there was no need to bench Peña. After a few games, Szczęsny became Barcelona’s starting goalkeeper and has amazing numbers with the club, with 0 losses yet.
Despite Szczęsny making several mistakes in the goal, he has gained Flick’s trust as his experience speaks for his performances. Flick stated that Szczęsny is his first choice and will start for future games, making it clear for Peña to be on the bench. Szczęsny was brought to Barcelona on a 1-year contract, but according to Diario Sport, Barca is now considering offering him a new contract which could see him stay at the club for another year. Credits: https://www.barcablaugranes.com/
This decision makes Peña insecure, as the the Spanish was having a great time and was in form he thinks that if he stays at the club his potential won’t be fulfilled. According to Diario Sport, the goalkeeper has had a chat with his manager but it didn’t go too well and left Pena feeling it will be really difficult now to regain his place. Credits: https://www.barcablaugranes.com/
Flick pointed out Peña was “not self-critical enough” and urged the goalkeeper to “accept the new reality.” Peña’s contract expires in 2026, let’s see what is next for the youngster.
My take on the situation
In my opinion, Peña was great in goal and did nothing wrong to lose his place. He is still young and could help the club in the future, but this is Barcelona and you have to fight for your place by proving yourself. Flick has made clear rules about being late in training and if Peña takes them lightly, he has to face the consequences.