The key reasons behind Barcelona’s trust in Wojciech Szczesny over Inaki Pena – report | OneFootball

In a recent report by Toni Juanmarti in SPORT, it has been revealed that the reason Wojciech Szczesny has taken the starting goalkeeper spot at Barcelona ahead of Inaki Pena is largely due to his wealth of experience.

Hansi Flick has made it clear that Szczesny is his number one choice in goal for the time being. While several factors played a role in this decision, the shift in the goalkeeper position was not entirely driven by sporting reasons.

Flick has considered Pena’s performances and while he did a solid job, he did not make decisive saves at key moments.

Matches against teams like Real Sociedad, Celta, and Atletico Madrid were cited as examples where Pena did not provide the crucial interventions that could have earned the team valuable points.

Flick’s decision to give Szczesny a chance stems from a belief that the veteran goalkeeper can offer more than Pena, especially in high-pressure situations.

What can Szczesny offer?

Hansi Flick has some doubts regarding Inaki Pena. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

One key factor in the decision is the need for experienced players in Barcelona’s young squad. Flick values experience, particularly when the team faces high-stakes matches.

Szczesny, having faced many more pressure situations throughout his career compared to Pena, is seen as someone who can handle intense moments. This is something that Flick believes will play a big role in the team’s success as the season progresses.

Another significant reason for Szczesny’s selection over Pena is communication. The coaching staff believes that Szczesny is more vocal on the pitch and has a commanding presence, even when he makes mistakes.

At 34 years old, Szczesny remains calm under pressure, and his leadership is seen as an asset to the team. Additionally, the coaching staff sees Szczesny as more effective in dealing with crosses and asserting his presence in the Penalty area.

What makes Szczesny better?

Hansi Flick trusts Wojciech Szczesny. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

His ability to deal with these situations is viewed as a strength compared to Pena, who has shown some hesitation in this aspect of his game.

Furthermore, Szczesny is considered more daring with the ball at his feet, taking more risks compared to Pena’s more cautious approach.

Despite these advantages, Flick’s decision to start Szczesny is still a gamble. After his initial performances, Flick believes that the overall performances of Szczesny and Pena are similar, but Szczesny’s experience could provide an extra edge.

Flick is aware that Pena is closer to his best form, but he believes Szczesny has a higher ceiling that could be unlocked with more regular play.

Flick’s decision will ultimately hinge on how well Szczesny performs in the coming matches and whether he can live up to the expectations set for him in Barcelona’s ambitious season.