FC Barcelona started their Preseason campaign with a comprehensive win over Manchester City. With the young Barcelona prodigies doing the job successfully against Pep's side, there are all smiles at the Catalan club recently. On top of that, another piece of news has arrived, according to which a key player in Barcelona's preseason opener has decided to stay at the Catalan club.
Being the second-choice goalkeeper for the Blaugrana club, Inaki Pena hasn't had many chances to start for FC Barcelona. Moreover, in Ter Stegen's absence for a considerable time in the 2023/24 campaign, the youngster didn't materialize on the chances he was showered with. Thus, rumors regarding his potential departure had been going on.
Inaki Pena dreams of succeeding at Barca amidst departure rumors
However, the Spanish goalkeeper has given a fierce reply to all those who were doubting the player's ability in Barca's goal. Being one of the best performers for FC Barcelona against Manchester City, Pena has shown that he could be entrusted with the responsibilities of the goal in the future. Managing four brilliant saves against Pep's side, including an important goal-line save that could have changed the fate of the match, Pena was incredible for Barca.
According to Diario SPORT, Inaki Pena has rejected all the offers that hinted at the possibility of him leaving the Catalan club. Moreover, after delivering a rock-solid performance for Barcelona against Manchester City, Pena has kept his dreams of succeeding at the club alive. Being a huge admirer of Ter Stegen, Pena has a great relationship with the German goalkeeper, which could help in the transition of keeping duties from Ter Stegen to him in the future.
Overall, with an impressive performance against one of the best clubs in European football, Pena has shown he has the potential to sustain on the biggest stage. Barca would hope that the Spanish goalkeeper continues his rich vein of form when Flick entrusts him as the starting keeper.