September 24, (THEWILL) – Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has expressed confidence in reserve goalkeeper Inaki Pena following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury.
Ter Stegen underwent surgery for a ruptured knee tendon and is expected to miss the remainder of the 2024/2025 season. Pena, who previously covered for Ter Stegen during a back injury last season, is set to start against Getafe in La Liga on Wednesday.
Flick praised Pena’s professionalism and readiness, stating, “Inaki is doing really well, in pre-season and training. He’s absolutely focused and ready to play.” However, the coach also mentioned the need to discuss potential signings, given the youth of their other goalkeeping options, Ander Astralaga (20) and the currently injured Diego Kochen (18).
The club is considering signing a free agent to bolster their goalkeeping ranks, with former Real Madrid keeper Keylor Navas reportedly linked to the league leaders. Flick emphasised the importance of careful consideration and consultation with goalkeeping coach Jose Ramon de la Fuente before making any decisions.
Barcelona currently hold a perfect record in La Liga after six games. Flick remains optimistic about the team’s performance on the back of what they have been able to demonstrate so far.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
