Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has cast further doubt over the goalkeeper position as Inaki Pena and veteran Wojciech Szczesny battle for the number one spot. The former has retained the starting spot since Szczesny retired to sign for Barcelona, but his two appearances in the Spanish Super Cup have led to speculation that Szczesny could become number one.
Szcesny also played in the Copa del Rey against Barbastro, and although he was sent off against Real Madrid, he only conceded once in his three appearances. However, Flick refused to confirm whether it would be 'Tek' or Pena against Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday evening.
“This is something we discuss with the coaches. I said a lot has changed because we see how Tek can perform in the Super Cup, and he is a champion, and you can see that. He has won a lot of titles and he has a lot of personality. “I love how he's behaving on the pitch, I think it's great, we'll discuss and see how he does tomorrow.”
“As I said before: I don't know what will happen,” he repeated when asked who would start against Benfica.
Flick was also asked how much it helps to have a big personality and someone with humor in the dressing, as is the case with Szczesny.
“I think it is one of the best transfers we have made in this position. It's not just his performance, but also his behavior, which is really great to see in the other goalkeepers. Such a successful goalkeeper, and that he gives his experience to the young players and also to the other goalkeepers, is really incredible.”
Flick said ahead of their Liga tie with Getafe that 'a lot had changed' regarding the goalkeeper position following the Spanish Super Cup, having previously been quite adamant that Pena would be their starter in the run-up to Christmas. The German coach also discussed their non-penalty against Getafe and Barcelona's ailing Liga form during his press conference.
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