One of the surprises of this season was the arrival of Wojciech Szczesny, who signed with the club after Ter Stegen's serious injury at the beginning of the campaign. The Polish player, with his experience and solidity, has not only reliably covered the blaugrana goal but has also delivered exceptional performance. Since his debut, Barça hasn't lost a single match with him in goal.
Szczesny has shown security in aerial play and a leadership ability that has inspired the rest of the team. In many matches, his interventions have been crucial to keeping a clean sheet. His level has created a management problem for Barça, but it has also sparked interest from several clubs regarding the future of another goalkeeper.
Iñaki Peña Off the Map
Szczesny's great level has had a direct consequence on Iñaki Peña's situation. The homegrown player, who started the season hoping to get minutes after Ter Stegen's injury, has seen his role relegated to absolute backup. His progression has stalled, and the club understands that the best for his development is a transfer in the summer.
Barça has valued Iñaki Peña at 10 million, a figure that has caught the attention of several teams. Among them, Celta de Vigo has shown concrete interest in acquiring his services. At 25 years old, Iñaki seeks continuity and prominence, something that seems difficult at Barcelona while Szczesny and Ter Stegen remain on the team.
Ter Stegen Changes Barça's Plans
Meanwhile, Ter Stegen has accelerated his recovery process and could return earlier than expected. Initially, it was expected that the German would be out all season, but his progress has been better than desired. Now, his return could happen in April, just in time for the decisive stretch.
The return of the German goalkeeper adds a new dilemma for Hansi Flick. With Szczesny in brilliant form and the German regaining his form, the German coach will have to make a crucial decision about who will be his starting goalkeeper.
Hansi Flick Will Bet on One of the Two for the End of the Season
The competition between both goalkeepers promises to be intense. Ter Stegen is the starter, but Szczesny has proven with actions that he deserves to stay in the line-up. According to the portal "Madrid-Barcelona," Flick leans toward keeping the Polish player in goal, prioritizing immediate performance.
This decision won't be easy, as Ter Stegen is a leader in the locker room and has been key in the team's recent successes. However, Szczesny's consistency and reliability make the choice not so obvious.