Hansi Flick previewed Barcelona's upcoming match against Osasuna, addressing the team's goalkeeping situation following Ter Stegen's injury. While expressing confidence in Iñaki Peña as a potential long-term starter, Flick remained non-committal on signing a new goalkeeper, with rumors linking Wojciech Szczesny to the club.
Hansi Flick took the time during Friday's press conference to provide insights ahead of the upcoming clash against Osasuna in the eighth round of La Liga.
While the German manager discussed various aspects of his squad's preparation, much attention was focused on the goalkeeping situation, given the injury to first-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen. Ter Stegen's absence has left a significant void, and Flick was pressed about the club's potential plans to bring in a replacement. However, Flick remained tight-lipped on the specifics, avoiding any major revelations about a potential signing.
When asked about Iñaki Peña, the young goalkeeper who is currently standing in for Ter Stegen, Flick expressed confidence in his abilities. "Iñaki could be the starter for the entire season. He's been working well and improving every day. It's good that he has confidence," said Flick. The manager emphasized the importance of patience in such situations, noting that Peña has stepped up to the challenge but that the club will continue to assess the situation. Flick’s comment, "We have to wait and see," hinted that while Peña is capable, the club is still considering its options, potentially signaling the possibility of bringing in reinforcements if necessary.
One of the names circulating as a potential goalkeeper signing is Wojciech Szczesny, the veteran Polish international who recently terminated his contract with Juventus as part of his retirement plans. While his name has been linked with Barcelona as a possible short-term solution, Flick did not confirm or deny any talks involving Szczesny. Nevertheless, the rumor mill continues to turn, with many speculating whether Szczesny could be lured out of retirement to provide stability in goal for the Catalan giants.
In addition to addressing the goalkeeping concerns, Flick took a moment to heap praise on French defender Jules Koundé, who has been in outstanding form since the start of the season. Koundé has emerged as a key figure in the team’s defense, and Flick's admiration for the player's attitude and work ethic was evident. "I told him to rest. I've never had a player like this before," Flick said, marveling at the Frenchman's relentless drive and professionalism. "After a match, he wants to train. Always. He takes great care of himself. It's not a common attitude, but it's a very good one," Flick added, highlighting Koundé's unique commitment to maintaining peak physical condition.
Koundé's performances have been crucial to Barcelona’s solid defensive displays this season, and Flick’s comments underline how much the German manager values players who go above and beyond in their dedication to the game. Koundé, who joined Barcelona from Sevilla, has not only been a rock in defense but also demonstrated versatility, playing both as a center-back and a right-back when needed. His strong start to the season has earned him plaudits from fans and analysts alike, and Flick’s endorsement only adds to the growing recognition of Koundé as one of the top defenders in La Liga.
As Flick prepares his team for the trip to Osasuna, his focus will undoubtedly be on maintaining momentum, especially with the current challenges posed by injuries to key players. Osasuna, known for their tenacity and resilience, will present a stern test, particularly at their home ground. Barcelona will need to be at their best defensively, with Koundé playing a pivotal role, while also ensuring that their goalkeeping situation remains stable in Ter Stegen’s absence.
Flick’s overall tone in the press conference reflected a manager who is aware of the challenges ahead but remains confident in his squad’s ability to overcome them. With the transfer window still open, the situation regarding potential reinforcements, especially in the goalkeeping department, remains fluid. For now, Iñaki Peña has the chance to prove himself as a capable deputy, but it remains to be seen if Barcelona will take further action to strengthen their squad as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, Barcelona continues to chase top honors in both domestic and European competitions, and Flick will need his squad firing on all cylinders to keep pace with their rivals. As they face Osasuna, the pressure will be on the team to secure all three points, with Koundé’s exceptional form and Peña’s resilience at the heart of their efforts to do so.
