FC Barcelona Faces a Decisive Week with Everything at Stake. The return leg of the Champions League semifinals against Inter and the league Clásico against Real Madrid determine the team's fate. Hansi Flick has decided to cut any doubts at the root in a sensitive position: the goalkeeping.
In recent days, tension has been rising. Speculation about who would occupy the Barça goal has been on everyone's lips. But the German coach has spoken loud and clear in a press conference.
A Surprising Decision for Many
Flick has confirmed that he will maintain his usual bet of recent weeks. Although one of the captains has returned from injury, the coach prefers not to alter what works. The message is clear: in key matches, there will be no room for sentimentality.
"The one who is best at this moment will play," he explained to the media. His response has caused surprise and debate in the Barça environment. Many took for granted the return of the usual starter.
The situation is not easy for anyone. The German goalkeeper has been out for seven months due to a serious patellar tendon injury. He returned with good feelings against Valladolid, leaving a solid impression.
However, Flick considers that it is not enough to change his planning. The coaching staff values the team's momentum and the confidence gained in the absence of the injured player. For the German, every decision counts when the season enters its final phase.
The Locker Room Already Knows the News
According to locker room sources, the coach's choice has not been received with indifference. Some players see it as an act of sporting justice. Others, however, believe that hierarchies should be respected at certain times.
The person in question, who expected to regain his place without discussion, has not hidden his displeasure. He believes he has lost the position without making mistakes. He feels that his trajectory at the club has not been sufficiently valued.
With this decision, the big beneficiary is Wojciech Szczęsny. The Polish international has played 26 matches this season with Barça. He has achieved 13 clean sheets, conceding only 26 goals.
Flick considers that he is at his best. He values his leadership, his calmness in big matches, and his connection with the defense. For the coach, there are no sporting reasons to make a change at this moment.
An Increasingly Solid Figure
Since his arrival, Szczęsny has been earning everyone's respect. He has been key in demanding matches, especially in Europe. His performance has even exceeded the most optimistic expectations.
The coaching staff also highlights his commitment and professionalism. He has never raised his voice, has worked silently, and has always performed when asked. That discreet and effective profile has ultimately convinced Flick.
Ter Stegen, Upset and Disappointed
On the contrary, Marc-André ter Stegen is not going through his best emotional moment. The German goalkeeper expected to regain his place without having to earn it again. He believes that his history at the club deserved different treatment.
In his environment, they talk about a possible departure if the situation doesn't change. He doesn't feel valued or supported by the new coaching staff. Although he has not released statements, his anger is evident.
For Flick, the statistics speak for themselves. Continuity in goal is vital at this time of year. Although it hurts to leave out one of the team's symbols, the group comes first.
With his choice, the coach sends a message to the locker room: no one has a guaranteed spot. Merit, above the name, is what defines decisions. Szczęsny will be the goalkeeper against Inter and Real Madrid.
A Clásico and a Semifinal That Define the Future
Barça is playing for a place in the Champions League final and a good part of their chances in LaLiga. They will do so with the goalkeeper who has supported the team during the starter's absence. Flick doesn't hesitate.
Ter Stegen will have to wait for his moment. Meanwhile, the goal has an owner. In the locker room, they already know: Szczęsny is the "number one" at this end of the season.