Barça was once again one of the main protagonists of a Champions League matchday after a frenetic victory against Benfica. In fact, the team led by Hansi Flick confirmed its participation in the round of 16 of the European competition, which wouldn't have been possible without securing the three points. Additionally, the fans of the Catalan club continue to celebrate what has been one of the most significant comebacks in the history of Barça and the Champions League.
However, not everything is euphoria or satisfaction at FC Barcelona. The match against Benfica was "the straw that broke the camel's back" for Hansi Flick regarding the level of certain players. In this regard, the Barça coach has made a decisive decision and is clear that this star will not play another minute.
A "star" Sentenced
One of the major weaknesses that Barça under Flick has shown so far is the inability to find sporting consistency, starting with the team. With this in mind, the Barça coach knows he must make decisions to take advantage of his players' best moments. This has led him to sentence one of his star signings: he has already made a decisive decision regarding the FC Barcelona's goalkeeping position.
The situation of Wojciech Szczęsny at Barça has changed radically in recent weeks. Hansi Flick was one of his main defenders both internally and publicly. However, his poor performance against Benfica has left him exposed, and if there was a battle for the starting goalkeeper position, it seems he has definitively lost it.
Back to the Bench
As of today, and according to the latest information circulating around Barça, everything points to Iñaki Peña being the starting goalkeeper this season. Szczęsny's performances in both the Spanish Super Cup and the Champions League haven't convinced Flick, who is more concerned than satisfied with the situation. Against Benfica, the Polish goalkeeper made mistakes uncharacteristic of an experienced goalkeeper and left the team in a bad position on the field.
This has led Flick to see Iñaki Peña as a more reliable option to protect the Barça goal. With this decision practically made, Szczęsny's future at FC Barcelona is in doubt. Relegated to the bench for the rest of the season, it remains to be seen what his intentions are for the next campaign.