Hansi Flick has clear ideas, but he wanted to know his players' opinions regarding the goalkeeping issue. Ter Stegen is two weeks away from being available. Wojciech Szczesny seems irreplaceable.
Ter Stegen or Szczesny
FC Barcelona faces a dilemma in the goalkeeping position as they enter the decisive phase of the season. Marc-André ter Stegen, after recovering from a knee injury that kept him out since September, is already training with the group and expresses his desire to return to the starting line-up. However, his return raises questions, especially considering Wojciech Szczesny's solid performance during his absence.
Szczesny, who joined Barça in October 2024 after coming out of retirement, has played 22 matches, conceding 17 goals, with 12 clean sheets. His experience and leadership have been essential for the team, earning the respect of the locker room and the fans. Despite his performance, his contract expires in June 2025, and his future at the club remains uncertain.
Coach Hansi Flick faces a complex decision. On one hand, there's the possibility of reinstating Ter Stegen, a pillar of the team in recent seasons. On the other, keeping Szczesny, who has proven to be in top form and has significantly contributed to the team's performance.
The Decision Is Already Made
Flick has publicly stated that he can't guarantee who will be the starter until the end of the season, leaving the competition open between both goalkeepers.
But the decision is made. The Pole will continue in the seven remaining LaLiga matches, the 3 potential Champions League matches, and the Copa del Rey final: 11 in total.
He prefers the guarantee of Szczesny rather than making experiments in the decisive stretch with a Ter Stegen lacking rhythm. Flick has decided that Wojciech Szczesny will play everything and will leave at the end of the season, to return the starting position to Ter Stegen.
Flick Already Knows How the Locker Room Feels
Before deciding, he wanted to gauge the locker room's opinion. He discovered that many, the majority, of the players advocate for Szczesny's continuity.
The opinion prevails that his presence brings stability and confidence to the team. Additionally, introducing Ter Stegen in crucial matches without competitive rhythm could be risky. Meanwhile, Szczesny has expressed his willingness to accept the coach's decision and his commitment to the team.
Flick's decision will not only impact the team's immediate performance but also the internal dynamics and future planning of the club. With the season in its crucial phase, the choice of the starting goalkeeper will be decisive in Barça's aspirations in the competitions they are participating in.