Barcelona academy graduate upset over his situation in team which could affect contract talks | OneFootball

Inaki Pena’s situation at FC Barcelona has taken a dramatic turn in 2025.

The La Masia goalkeeper had been a regular starter in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League since Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury.

Wojciech Szczesny replaced him in goal initially in the Copa del Rey, a change that has then extended to the Spanish Super Cup, La Liga and the UCL.

It only took the Polish goalkeeper six matches to establish himself as Hansi Flick’s first choice in goal across all competitions.

Pena upset over his situation

As such, Mundo Deportivo reports that Flick’s decision to alter the starting goalkeeper has sparked significant debate, leaving Pena upset, confused and unsettled.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper does not fully understand the reasons behind his demotion, beyond the fact that Szczesny appears to have convinced the German coach.

No longer the No. 1 in goal. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Pena, however, feels uncomfortable with the situation, as he believes he has not made any mistakes that would justify the change.

Despite the situation, he maintains a good relationship with Szczesny and is committed to working hard in the hope of regaining his place.

So far this season, Pena has played 22 matches in all competitions, keeping six clean sheets and conceding 25 goals.

Contract talks to be affected?

Barcelona had planned to hold a meeting with Pena and his camp soon to discuss his future, as his contract stands to expire in 2026.

But this meeting may now take a different direction following the recent developments as he feels that he is not a priority for Flick, adding uncertainty over his future moving forward.

In case the La Masia product decides against renewing his contract, Barcelona are already weighing up the possibility of signing a new goalkeeper in the summer.