The Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny put in an incredible performance in the match against Benfica, which was key to keeping FC Barcelona alive in the tie before they took the lead through Raphinha in the second half and ultimately came out of this first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie with a goal advantage.
Following this crucial performance, reports are doing the rounds in Spanish media that the chances of his renewal beyond the end of this season are now becoming more concrete for the Pole.
However, his continuity means increased uncertainty about the future of the other goalkeeper contending for a starting spot in Hansi Flick’s team, i.e., Inaki Pena, whose contract is expiring in 2026.
There are several European clubs who are keeping an eye on his precarious situation at Barcelona and some of these clubs have already expressed their interest in the player.
According to Mundo Deportivo, one such club is the Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray, the team where Pena played on loan in 2022. The Turks are looking to once again get the Spanish shot-stopper into their team, as their current starting goalkeeper, Fernando Muslera, is likely to return to his native Uruguay this summer.
However, Pena is not looking to leave Barcelona for now, even though the Blaugranes have not gotten in touch with him to discuss the renewal of his contract that expires in a year and a half. Currently, he is fully focused on training and ensuring he is in the best shape to be available for Hansi Flick whenever the German needs him again.
Pena’s experience of playing at Galatasaray in the past was largely positive, and both the Turkish club and its fans regretted when he left following the end of his loan. His performance against his parent club, Barcelona, in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Europa League is remembered particularly fondly in Turkey.
