Szczesny Backs Flick: 'Bench Role is Fair'

Wojciech Szczesny, the Polish goalkeeper signed by Barcelona as a replacement for the injured Marc-André ter Stegen, has yet to make his debut for the team after two and a half months. Despite his eagerness to play, Szczesny fully supports head coach Hansi Flick's choice to continue fielding Inaki Pena, who has featured in 18 matches across La Liga and the Champions League since Ter Stegen's injury.

Speaking to a Polish sports outlet, Szczesny said, “When will I play my first game for Barcelona? I honestly don’t know. From the start, I focused on regaining full fitness, and now I feel physically and mentally prepared.”

Szczesny, under contract with Barcelona until June 2025, added, “If I were the coach, I’d probably make the same decision to start Pena. It’s difficult to be disappointed because I completely agree with giving him the opportunity.”

The 34-year-old goalkeeper expressed optimism about contributing when the time comes while appreciating the competitive spirit and opportunities in Barcelona's squad.