Hans-Dieter Flick has taken the reins of FC Barcelona with a firm hand, but some of his decisions are generating controversy within the locker room. In particular, his handling of the goalkeeping position hasn't been well-received among some players. Some consider that the German coach is prioritizing one goalkeeper over what performance on the field dictates.
The coach's choices have surprised more than a few in the Catalan City, Flick has proven to be a coach with very marked ideas. Although some footballers and members of the coaching staff believe that his decisions don't always respond to purely sporting criteria. This situation has created discomfort within the group, which is beginning to question whether all players are having the same opportunities.
One of the main points of friction has been the difficult management of minutes in the goal, despite many expecting a more open competition. The coach has made it clear that he has a favorite, something that has caused unrest in a sector of the locker room. The squad expected a more equitable distribution of opportunities, especially after the effort made by certain players at key moments of the season.
Flick's Punishment
The case that has hurt the team the most is that of Iñaki Peña, the Spanish goalkeeper has been essential for Barça in the most difficult months of the season. When Ter Stegen was out, his performance was remarkable, and he was even pointed out as important by his own teammates. But a lack of discipline has changed everything, and the German in that sense is clear, no one is above the internal codes of his locker room.
The coach's decision to firmly bet on Wojciech Szczęsny has been interpreted as a veto to Peña. The Pole, who arrived in the last winter market, has become the German coach's preferred option without room for rotation. This has caused surprise and discontent in the squad, which expected Peña to continue having prominence after his great performance.
Ter Stegen Races His Return
For now, Flick remains firm in his stance and doesn't seem willing to change his mind. No matter the internal pressure that may exist in the locker room, the German coach is clear about his plan and will continue with it. The tension within the team continues to rise, and if the results don't join, the controversy over Barça's goalkeeping could become a bigger problem for the club.
As if that weren't enough for Iñaki Peña, Marc Andre Ter-Stegen is feeling better every day and is preparing his return for the end of the season. It may be the best news for the blaugranas, as the starting goalkeeper is very necessary for the team. Until then, it remains to be seen if Flick will relent with Iñaki Peña or, on the contrary, will continue relying on Wojciech Szczęsny as in the last six matches.