Barcelona homegrown star inching closer to an exit after growing frustrated with role | OneFootball

Barcelona are already making progress in building their squad for the next season, part of which involves tying down players to new contracts.

As part of the strategy, the Blaugrana have already opened talks to renew Wojciech Szczesny, whose current deal runs out at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old Pole has become the preferred option in goal under Hansi Flick since January and has now decided to continue at Barcelona beyond this season.

This, however, further complicates Inaki Pena’s chances of getting game time and strengthens his decision to leave the club. The La Masia goalkeeper is experiencing a tough period due to his unexpected exclusion from the team, which has begun to take a toll on him.

Inaki Pena leaning towards an exit

As such, MARCA reports that the likely renewal of Szczesny’s contract complicates Pena’s future at Barcelona. His current contract runs until June 2026, and club executives recently inquired about his plans.

Initially, he intended to wait until the end of the season before making a decision, but he is increasingly convinced that he needs regular playing time to advance his career. Barcelona’s management is also beginning to see him as a player likely to leave.

On his way out. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury, Pena finally got his long-awaited chance as the starting goalkeeper. However, Hansi Flick opted for Szczesny in January and relegated the Spaniard to the bench.

The coach had previously assured Pena that he would be the main goalkeeper after Ter Stegen’s injury, but he has since changed his stance, and his decision now seems final.

This unexpected relegation to the bench has had a noticeable emotional impact on Pena. While he continues to demonstrate professionalism and commitment, his teammates have observed a change in his demeanour. He appears withdrawn and somewhat isolated.

The 26-year-old is known for his composure and mental resilience, which allow him to stay highly focused during matches, recover quickly from mistakes, and handle competition with confidence. However, these qualities have been put to the test in recent months.

Several La Liga clubs have already expressed interest in Pena and it appears increasingly likely that he will part ways with Barcelona come summer.