Hansi Flick's start as FC Barcelona's coach has not only brought new tactical ideas, but also firm decisions in squad management. In this regard, one of the most sensitive areas has been the goalkeeping position. This is a position where the Catalan club needs clarity after a season marked by Ter Stegen's injury and Iñaki Peña's emergence as a temporary replacement.
Although the latter has performed reliably when draftedon, his situation became uncertain after the German's recovery. Hansi Flick, with a very clear vision of his goalkeepers' roles, decided to strengthen the goal with a new name to compete with Marc-André Ter Stegen. That choice has caused a significant change in the club's plans and, above all, in the future of the most patient academy players.
the market knocks on the door
After years of waiting for his opportunity, Iñaki Peña has decided to end his time at FC Barcelona. The goalkeeper trained at La Masia hasn't found the desired support with Flick's arrival. The coach opted for an experienced goalkeeper —such as Szczesny—, which is a clear sign that the young Alicante goalkeeper's prominence between the posts would remain limited.
Thus, everything indicates that his destination will be Celta de Vigo, where he has been offered a starting role and an attractive sports project. According to recent reports, the transfer will be completed for about €10 million, a figure that Barça accepts to gain financial leeway. For Iñaki, it means a new beginning, and for the club, another sign that Flick's sports project brings difficult but necessary decisions.
flick is clear about it
With this move on the table, the culé coach makes it clear that his sports planning involves strengthening every line with players who fit his playing philosophy. Flick isn't afraid to make unpopular decisions if he believes they help strengthen the group. In Iñaki Peña's case, his departure is more a matter of hierarchy and future vision than of his specific performance.
Even so, the German coach has shown trust in other academy players, such as Marc Casadó or Héctor Fort. This indicates that his project does include young talent, but with well-defined roles. The goalkeeping position, due to its level of demand and responsibility, seems to be reserved for profiles with immediate experience.