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Iñaki Peña's next destination: they don't guarantee him a starting spot, but he's leaving Barça

Iñaki Peña's situation at Barça is going to change in the coming days, and he will have to work hard to find a spot

Iñaki Peña has become the last option for the blaugrana goal. With so many names ahead of him, his opportunities to compete are minimal. Faced with this reality, the goalkeeper is looking for a way out that would allow him to have continuity.

The homegrown player has always shown commitment to the club, but now he wants playing time. He understands that his career needs an immediate boost to become established. However, he isn't considering a permanent departure, which is why he's prioritizing a loan.

Iñaki Peña considers a loan the best alternative

The loan appears to be the most reasonable solution for all parties. Barça frees up space and Peña can grow in a different environment. At the same time, he keeps his connection and the possibility of returning in the near future.

Two soccer players in dark uniforms watch intently at something outside the frame.
Iñaki Peña was Barça's starting goalkeeper until Szczesny earned the position | Getty Images

Different teams have shown interest in the situation. Among them, Celta stands out, needing competition between the posts, as well as Fàbregas's Como. Both represent attractive projects, but they don't seem to guarantee him a truly leading role.

Elche, the best positioned destination for the loan

In this context, Elche has positioned itself as the strongest destination for Iñaki Peña. Its interest isn't recent, as it has been closely following his development. The Elche team believes he could be a decisive addition for the season.

The move to Elche would be a great opportunity to gain more significance | Getty Images

For Peña, this possibility is especially attractive. There, he could get quality minutes and gain prominence in a demanding competition. In addition, the geographical proximity would make his adaptation to the new stage much easier.

A departure with Barça's approval

Barça has given the green light to this loan. It believes that loaning Peña not only benefits his development but also the balance of the goalkeeping position. Having four goalkeepers in the first team dynamic is unsustainable at a sporting level.

Iñaki Peña lost Flick's trust after Ter Stegen's injury | Getty Images, Freepik, Madrid-Barcelona

The decision has the support of the sporting management, which understands the need for Iñaki Peña to keep growing. In the future, he could return with accumulated experience and greater maturity to compete for a spot.

Iñaki Peña's goal at Elche

If the loan is finally confirmed, Peña will face a very important challenge in his career. He isn't guaranteed a starting spot, but he'll have the chance to fight for it. That daily battle is exactly what he needs most to improve his abilities.

At Elche, he'll find an environment where every minute counts and where his performance will be scrutinized. That very demand could turn him into a more complete goalkeeper. With patience and hard work, he could pave the way to return to Barça better prepared.