‘An outstanding goalkeeper’… De la Fuente impressed with Barcelona goalkeeper’s development | OneFootball

The severe injury suffered by Marc Andre Ter Stegen in the initial phase of this season left a gaping hole in the FC Barcelona team. The German goalkeeper, who is not only the starting goalkeeper for the Blaugranes but also the first captain of the team, is currently recovering from a torn patellar tendon, and is not expected to play again this season.

The Catalans also brought in the experienced Wojciech Szczesny to their squad to bolster their goalkeeper options, but Inaki Pena has been able to retain his position between the sticks and has not given too many causes for complaints in the appearances he has made up to now.

However, he was still not called up by Luis de la Fuente for this November international break, in which La Roja will face Denmark and Switzerland. Still, the Spanish coach was full of praise for the Barcelona shot-stopper, whom he knows from his time in the youth teams, as he talked to SPORT. The Spaniard made it clear that he was not surprised by Pena’s development:

“Iñaki is an outstanding goalkeeper; he’s been with us through various stages. I’m glad there are many outfield players and goalkeepers playing for their clubs because that’s good for their teams and for the Spanish national team.

Iñaki has been in all the youth categories. He was a regular. I’m pleased with his performance, and it doesn’t surprise me. We know his potential and capability. And he still has room for improvement.”

With the way he is playing, Pena might go on to be called up by the Spanish national team in the coming months. But for now, he will have to ensure that he continues to perform well in the Barcelona goal and keep on showcasing his talent, especially to individuals like Hansi Flick and Luis de la Fuente.