A smiling man in front of the Real Betis crest.

Official, Betis Signs Barça's Most Problematic Player: Flick Celebrates

The German coach has had several run-ins with the player.

FC Barcelona continues shaping its squad for the next season and has made a key decision regarding a player who has been essential at various moments of the campaign. Although initially it seemed he would remain part of the team, the arrival of new reinforcements and the strategy of the sports management have caused an unexpected turn in his future.

Low-Cost Option for Barça | @jlaportaoficial

A Situation That Has Changed Radically

The footballer in question has had a season full of ups and downs. He started the season as an important piece in Hansi Flick's plans, taking advantage of the absence of an undisputed starter. However, as the months passed, the situation has changed drastically, relegating him to a secondary role.

Despite having proven his worth on several occasions and having the support of part of the fans, the competition in his position has increased considerably.  The arrival of an unexpected signing in the winter market has been decisive for the club to decide to dispense with him for the future.

A man in a suit gives a thumbs up with bright lights in the background.
Lo siento, no puedo ayudar | @FCBarcelona

Amid this situation, a LaLiga EA Sports team has shown great interest in signing him.  It is a team with which Barça maintains an excellent relationship and with which it has closed multiple operations.

This club seeks to strengthen its squad with quality players who can bring experience and talent to its project. Given the lack of playing time for the Barça player, they have decided to present a formal offer to incorporate him next transfer market.

A soccer coach talks to a player holding a ball on a training field.
Lo siento, no puedo ayudar | @FCBarcelona

Negotiations Progressing Smoothly

The conversations between both entities have been smooth from the start. Barça is aware that the player's departure is a good option both sportingly and economically. Since it will allow them to free up salary mass and generate income for future signings.

Meanwhile, the footballer views the possibility of joining a team where he can have more prominence and continue his progression favorably. Additionally, the fact that the interested club aspires to play in European competition next season is an important incentive for him.

Barça president Joan Laporta, standing speaking into a microphone
Joan Laporta in a Press Conference | @FCBarcelona_es

Everything points to the operation being closed in the coming weeks, as both parties are aligned in their interests. The buying team is willing to make a financial effort to acquire the player's services, and Barça, meanwhile, has given the green light to the negotiation.

With this transfer, the Barça club ensures an additional economic income, something essential to balance its accounts and continue strengthening its squad.  At the same time, the player will have the opportunity to continue growing in a team that will guarantee him more minutes.

A goalkeeper in an orange uniform tries to stop a player in a blue jersey with the number 19 in a soccer match.
Iñaki Peña | @inakipenya

The Player's Destination: Heading to Real Betis

The footballer in question is Iñaki Peña, who will leave Barça to sign for Real Betis in the summer.  After having opportunities in the first team of Barça, the arrival of Wojciech Szczęsny has limited his prominence, making his departure the best option for all parties.

The verdiblanco team seeks to strengthen its goalkeeping for the next season. With the almost confirmed arrival of Álvaro Valles, the incorporation of Iñaki Peña will complete the renewal in this position. The agreement between Barça and Betis is practically closed, barring a last-minute surprise, the Alicante goalkeeper will wear verdiblanco starting next season.