Hansi Flick continues making important decisions as Barça's coach and, together with Deco, closes one of the most significant debates that have arisen in recent weeks. The German coach has decided on the goalkeepers he wants at his disposal starting next season, and the future of certain players is a concern for the management. In fact, the only one guaranteed to continue is Marc-André ter Stegen, so Flick will have to choose between Iñaki Peña and Wojciech Szczęsny.
The German goalkeeper is still recovering from the serious knee injury he suffered a few months ago, and the date when he will be able to return to the field remains unknown. That's why Flick has been alternating between Iñaki and Szczęsny so far this season, but it is clear that both will not have a place in the new Barça. In this regard, it seems that Flick has already informed Deco who will be his second goalkeeper, and the sports management has already gotten to work.
A Necessary Decision
At first glance, it is expected that Ter Stegen will be available for Flick at the start of the next season without any issues. However, the German goalkeeper has been clear: he doesn't want to force or take risks with his recovery, so he will not return until he is physically 100%. Thus, to avoid any setbacks, the technical team needs another reliable goalkeeper, and this is where doubts began.
Initially, Iñaki Peña was chosen by Flick and company beyond Szczęsny's incorporation due to doubts. However, the German has completely lost the confidence he had in the Spanish goalkeeper, who is now relegated to a completely secondary role. In contrast, Szczęsny has taken advantage of his opportunities and demonstrated his experience when he had to defend the Barça goal, thus securing his place in Flick's line-ups.
Flick has been very clear with the Pole. "You're going to stay one more year at Barça."
Completely Different Futures
In this scenario, the future of both goalkeepers doesn't follow the same path. Iñaki Peña, who has a contract only until 2026, has halted all talks to renew with Barça and will most likely pack his bags. Meanwhile, Szczęsny has a valid contract with the Catalan club until this June 30, and his intention was to return to retirement.
In this regard, Barça was already discussing the possibility of bringing in a new goalkeeper in case the Pole decides to hang up his gloves again. However, Flick has asked Laporta and Deco to renew Szczęsny as the second goalkeeper. Thus, if he accepts, there is a clear path for the sale of Iñaki Peña.