Barça tied with Atalanta and secured its place in the Champions League round of 16. Although the team achieved its goal in Europe, an issue within the locker room has caused great controversy. The decision of its coach, Hansi Flick, regarding the starting goalkeeper has ignited tensions within the group.
The goalkeeper controversy
One of the most debated points in recent weeks is Flick's choice of the starting goalkeeper. Although the team has several outstanding players, the goalkeeper position has become a sensitive topic.
Iñaki Peña, one of the club's promising players, has lost his starting position to Szczęsny. The veteran Polish goalkeeper, coming from Juventus, joined Barça with the hope of bringing experience, but his performance hasn't convinced many.
Szczęsny's mistakes
Since Szczęsny began playing as the starter, the criticisms have continued to grow. The fans, always alert to any mistake by their team, haven't forgiven some of the Polish goalkeeper's failed interventions.
His performance has been inconsistent, and in several matches, he has been responsible for some goals conceded that the supporters consider avoidable. However, the real focus of tension is in the locker room.
The players' desire
According to reports from Catalunya Radio, several players within Barcelona have expressed their disagreement with Szczęsny's starting position. Some players prefer Iñaki Peña, who, despite his inexperience, conveys more security than Szczęsny. Within the locker room, it is perceived that Peña provides more stability and better communication with the defense.
The atmosphere in Barça's locker room is tense. Many players have already expressed their preference for Iñaki Peña as the starter. This "silent mutiny" has been brewing in recent training sessions and private conversations among the players.
The team feels more secure with Peña in goal, despite his lesser international experience compared to Szczęsny. In this regard, several players believe that the coach should reconsider his decision to prevent tensions from continuing to grow.
Flick's confidence
Despite the criticisms from the players and the fans, Julian Flick continues to trust Szczęsny. The German coach considers the Polish player an important piece for the team and gives him the starting position in key moments.
However, the situation seems to be affecting the group's dynamics. The lack of consensus on the choice of goalkeeper could become a bigger problem if not handled carefully.