FC Barcelona Has Begun to Define Its Goalkeeping Plan for the Next Season. With Marc-André ter Stegen recovering from his injury and securing his position as the starter, Hansi Flick and Deco have made key decisions about the future of the goalkeepers at the club.
The German goalkeeper, who will turn 33 in April, remains an essential piece in Barça's project. His recovery is progressing well, and the coaching staff is confident that he will be at full capacity in the preseason. Flick believes that Ter Stegen still has several years at the highest level, so he will continue to be the number one in the blaugrana goal.
Significant Changes
The Main Confirmed Departure in Barça's Goalkeeping Is Iñaki Peña. The homegrown player hasn't fully convinced Flick, and the club considers it the right time to seek a more experienced alternative. His departure will leave a significant gap on the bench, which will be filled by Wojciech Szczęsny, current goalkeeper of Juventus.
The 34-year-old Pole will sign a one-season contract with the option to extend it for another year. Despite his veteran status, Flick considers him a reliable option to give Ter Stegen rest when necessary. Szczęsny will bring experience and leadership, in addition to accepting his role as a substitute, something Barça values highly in this transition.
The Goalkeeper of the Future
But the Signing of Szczęsny Isn't the Only Move in the Goalkeeping Department. Barça has already decided who will be Ter Stegen's heir in the future: Diego Kochen.
The young goalkeeper, born in Miami, has become the starting goalkeeper for Barça Atlètic and has impressed the coaching staff with his development. At 18 years old, his progress has been remarkable. The club believes he has the talent and personality to take on the challenge of defending the blaugrana goal in the coming years.
Barça's Plan Is Clear: Szczęsny Will Be the Second Next Season, While Kochen Will Remain as the Third Goalkeeper and Continue His Growth. In a couple of years, the idea is for the young goalkeeper to take on the role of Ter Stegen's backup, with an eye on becoming the starter when the German leaves the club or reduces his prominence.
Laporta and Deco Trust the New Plan
The Management Considers This Strategy the Best to Ensure an Orderly Transition in the Goalkeeping Department. Ter Stegen will remain the reference, but Barça wants to ensure that when the time comes for his departure, there will be a goalkeeper ready to take over.
With the addition of Szczęsny and the commitment to Kochen, Barça believes it has found the perfect balance between experience and youth. Now, it only remains to see how this planning evolves and if the expected timelines are finally met.