FC Barcelona's goalkeeping is experiencing a very particular moment this season. Marc-André ter Stegen is still injured, and his return doesn't have a confirmed date yet. Meanwhile, Wojciech Szczesny has assumed the role of starter with enormous competence.
His interventions have been key to keeping Barça competitive in recent months. In the offices, there is total satisfaction with his performance and leadership between the posts. Therefore, they are already working on a proposal to extend his contract beyond 2025.
Szczesny has convinced Barça and his renewal is already on the table
Szczesny has proven that he is still in full form to be a starter at the highest level. His experience has been vital to maintaining defensive balance during Ter Stegen's absence. Despite his age, he has shown reflexes, character, and consistency in every commitment.
The 2025-2026 season will be key to deciding who is the definitive owner of the goal. Ter Stegen will return eager to reclaim his spot, and the competition will be intense. However, the coaching staff is also thinking about the longer-term future.
Barça is thinking about 2027 and already has the heir to Ter Stegen and Szczesny
The scenario will change radically in 2027, when Szczesny is expected to hang up his gloves. That date will mark the beginning of a new era under the direction of Hansi Flick. And Barça already knows who will take over as the main goalkeeper of the project, Diego Kochen.
The 19-year-old reserve team goalkeeper is one of the world's great promises and already trains with the first team. He is of American origin and has a future that excites the entire Barça environment. Flick is completely won over with his style, maturity, and ability to lead from the goal.
Diego Kochen is Flick's top choice to lead Barça's goalkeeping starting in 2027
Diego Kochen combines quick reflexes, good footwork, and a great sense of positioning. His evolution has been constant, standing out in lower categories and surprising the coaches. He has already been drafted several times, and his adaptation has been excellent.
The idea is for Diego Kochen to continue growing in a professional dynamic during the next season. He will receive minutes in the cup and regular training with the first team's starting goalkeepers. Starting in 2027, he is expected to establish himself as a real option to be the number one.
With this planning, Barça ensures present and future in goalkeeping. Szczesny will stay a while longer, and Diego Kochen will wait for his moment to make the definitive leap. Meanwhile, Ter Stegen will need to recover his best level if he wants to remain a reference.