Hansi Flick plans to have 34-year-old veteran star into Barca's XI as soon as possible
- Hansi Flick plans to have 34-year-old veteran star Szczesny into Barcelona's XI as soon as possible.
- Considering Inaki Pena's recent performances, Szczesny would be a major upgrade in Barca's defense duties.
FC Barcelona's form in the recent fixtures has been excellent. Firstly, cruising past Young Boys, 5-0, in the UCL matchday and then dominating Alaves 3-0 away, the club's overall performances have been brilliant. However, probably the only aspect where the Blaugrana club has looked a bit sloppy has been their defense. In particular, despite a decent show by the club's back four, prodigy keeper Inaki Pena hasn't looked convincing at all.
Hansi Flick plans to have 34-year-old veteran star into Barca's XI as soon as possible
In fact, this has been the scenario since the Catalan club faced the severe injury of their priority number 1, Club Captain Ter Stegen. Although Pena has been trusted between the sticks since then and has even managed to reflect decent numbers as well, having 3 clean sheets in 5 appearances, the Spanish 25-year-old hasn't lived up to the expectations the club fans have from him.
However, with Barca's replacement signing, veteran keeper Wojciech Szczesny, reported to be available soon after the international break, the scenario might change drastically in the club's goal duties. Having featured in some of the best European clubs and showing impressive levels already, former Juve star Szczesny might make his way to the Barca lineup much easier than expected.
In fact, while initial reports suggested that FC Barcelona would consider Inaki Pena and Szczesny in rotation, recent reports suggest a much clearer picture of Flick's pecking order for the keeping role. Barca boss Flick, who had prioritized Szczesny's signing, being much aware of his abilities in goal, waits for him eagerly to be available for lineup selection. As per reports from journalist Miguel Rico, Hansi Flick's idea is to replace Iñaki Peña with Szczesny as soon as he is ready.
From FC Barcelona's perspective, it feels like a much-needed, clear upgrade in the club's defensive duties. While certainly, so far this season, Inaki Pena hasn't been terrible, he clearly needs refinement if he is to lead the role in the future. Not only does Szczesny's incoming as the starting goalkeeper benefit the club, but it can be pivotal to push Pena to his limits to earn his spot back.
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Thus, overall, Hansi Flick's plan to bring in veteran star Szczesny could turn out to be one of the best decisions in FC Barcelona's season ahead. Barca fans would hope that Wojciech Szczesny, expected to feature against Sevilla, starts his club career at his best level here, playing a crucial role in their season ahead.
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