Wojciech Szczęsny has sent a message of support to his Barcelona teammate Iñaki Peña, ahead of what promises to be a competitive battle for the starting goalkeeper spot in Hansi Flick’s squad. Meanwhile, Flick’s decision to prioritize signing Dani Olmo over his original target was influenced by Olmo’s quality, and Szczęsny’s arrival is expected to bring further depth to Barcelona’s squad. As for Raphinha, his strong performances this season and deep commitment to the project have earned him significant praise from both Flick and his teammates.
Szczęsny Sends Message to Barcelona’s Iñaki Peña
New Barcelona signing Wojciech Szczęsny shared a public message of support for his new teammate, Iñaki Peña, on Thursday.
This comes as the two prepare to compete for the number one spot in Hansi Flick’s squad.
Veteran goalkeeper Szczęsny signed with the Catalan club last week as a free agent following Marc-André ter Stegen’s long-term injury.
The former Arsenal and Juventus goalkeeper, still working on his match fitness after missing pre-season with any club, saw Iñaki Peña remain in goal for Barcelona over the weekend.
However, once Szczęsny regains full fitness, the battle for the starting spot will be intense.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo on Thursday, it was no surprise that Wojciech Szczęsny was asked about the upcoming competition.
In his reply, the Polish goalkeeper emphasized that his main focus is to support his teammate Peña.
“Iñaki Peña? He has been playing very well. I made it clear to him that my main priority at the moment is to help him because I’m not ready to play. I was on holiday for two months, and I need time to guarantee a level to represent the shirt. My priority is to help him.”
Flick Chose Dani Olmo Over Priority Target Due to Quality
Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, leading with composure after taking on the captaincy.
A true leader on the field, earning praise for his exceptional performances, the Brazilian has secured his place as a regular starter under Hansi Flick.
His rise to prominence is no accident, as the German coach has held the winger in high regard since their first meeting. SPORT offers an update on this development.
Love at First Sight
According to the outlet, Raphinha’s improvement this season can be attributed to several factors, with the strong partnership between him and Flick being the key element.
From the very beginning, the German coach was impressed by Raphinha’s energy and held him in high regard, always seeing the Brazilian as a central figure in his plans.
Raphinha’s presence was a key factor in the coach’s decision to prioritize Dani Olmo’s signing over Nico Williams in the summer, as he viewed the former Leeds United star as a strong option to offer additional attacking solutions.
Flick also recognizes the dynamism and versatility the 27-year-old adds, particularly as Barcelona faces a severe injury crisis.
The report adds that the manager admires Raphinha not just for his on-field quality but also for his full dedication and passion for the project.
Given this, it’s no surprise that the player has featured in every match except the first hour against Osasuna, which remains Barcelona’s only La Liga loss this season.
Aside from the manager’s admiration, the winger is also well-liked in the dressing room, and he repays Flick’s trust with such commitment that any talk of a future departure is put to rest.
Barcelona is satisfied with Raphinha, and the only situation in which his departure might be considered is if the club needs funds to bolster the squad next summer.
As things stand, however, Flick has no interest in discussing the possibility, and the player is set to remain.
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