The situation has completely changed for Iñaki Peña and his departure from Barça is being prepared for next season. Hansi Flick is clear that he doesn't trust the Alicante goalkeeper and has been blunt in public, stating: "Szczęsny is the number one, clearly". The youth player has gone from playing in the League and Champions League to being left with nothing, as the plan is clear: he won't play in the Copa del Rey against Valencia either.
"I know you compare players, but Szczęsny is very good, just like Iñaki. But I've chosen Szczęsny's personality and his play style. They are two very good goalkeepers and the young talents also work very well, but this is the decision. It has nothing to do with Szczęsny or Iñaki Peña, but with the team, and we always decide what's best for the team", publicly stated Hansi Flick.
Hansi Flick blunt with Iñaki Peña: "Find a team"
Hansi Flick gave him priority, after Ter Stegen's injury, out of respect for his seniority in the squad, but Iñaki Peña never had the trust of the German coach. Meanwhile, the signing of Szczęsny was very special. At 35 years old, he had already been retired from football for three months since announcing his departure from Juventus.
Flick has tried to save face by saying that Barça has won the matches played with Szczęsny as goalkeeper. But it could also be interpreted that his team won the games despite the Polish goalkeeper.
Nothing seems to affect Hansi Flick, who is very convinced that his decision is the best. To the point that he has already told Iñaki Peña face to face to find a team because he won't be a starter at Barça again. And Iñaki Peña is already on it. He has several offers: surely his notable performances with Barça haven't gone unnoticed in the market.
The plan with Iñaki Peña is clear: his contract ends in 2026 and he will be sold for a small amount, keeping a percentage of his future sale.
The reasons for Flick's decision
In this regard, he won't make anything public, but Flick is clear about why he has made this decision. Iñaki Peña doesn't fit, he believes he doesn't have the sufficient level for Barça. Szczęsny doesn't fully convince him either, but he prioritizes his experience in big teams like Arsenal or Juventus.
Iñaki Peña knows he doesn't count for Flick and with Ter Stegen returning next season, he intends to seek a new destination.