Barcelona’s transfer activity has been quite eventful, even before the winter window officially opens, mainly due to the serious injury of Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
With his recovery taking time, Barça moved quickly to bring in experienced goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, intending to add depth and stability to their options.
However, Inaki Pena, who has been a reliable presence for the team, has rightfully earned the starting spot and will continue in that role.
Looking ahead, Barça’s sporting director, Deco, has already mapped out a strategy, with Ter Stegen still considered the long-term number one once he returns to full fitness.
What is Barcelona’s strategy?
Ter Stegen’s injury sparked some questions about whether Barcelona should seek a permanent replacement or strengthen their goalkeeping lineup further in the summer. However, Deco is clear that the club’s focus remains firmly on Ter Stegen’s recovery.
At 32, Ter Stegen is still young for a goalkeeper and has three years left on his current contract with Barça.
“No [we will not look for a replacement]. Marc still has three years left on his contract, he is young for a goalkeeper, 32 years old, and we must focus on him recovering well and coming back in good shape,” he told Mundo Deportivo.
The club prioritises his health and readiness for a strong return, rather than rushing to the market for a permanent change. The presence of two capable goalkeepers – Szczesny and Pena – ensures there is no immediate pressure on Ter Stegen to rush back prematurely.
“That is why having two goalkeepers who give us guarantees is important, so we are not in a hurry for him to come back. We are analysing it little by little, I don’t think it is something we need to consider now.”
What was the conversation with Szczesny?
When asked about Szczesny’s future intentions, there seems to be no rush or pressure for him to play immediately. His initial role within the squad is to bring balance, depth, and a healthy level of competition.
Szczesny’s arrival has been well-received in the dressing room, as he has brought a positive attitude that has had a great impact on team dynamics.
“He hasn’t played yet. The first thing he came to do was to bring balance and competitiveness. He’s a person who the dressing room is quite fond of.
“He’s come with a positive spirit and that’s important for the dynamics of the dressing room. We’re happy with what he’s doing,” added Deco.
Although the decision on playing time will ultimately rest with the coach, Deco emphasises that having two strong goalkeepers fosters an environment of competitiveness and mutual respect.
“The decision to play will always be up to the coach, but I think that competitiveness in the squad is important. What we want with Szczesny is for him and Iñaki to be fighting to play and for both of them to be working and respecting each other.”
What about Diogo Costa?
As for potential future transfers, Deco mentioned that while there is notable talent like Diogo Costa at Porto, Barça’s focus remains on Ter Stegen. When Ter Stegen is fit, he is Barça’s undisputed first choice; therefore, no immediate signings are planned.
“First of all, he’s not in the squad because we have Ter Stegen. I don’t see any goalkeepers now because when Marc is fit we’re not going to sign anyone for him.”
Deco also noted that a player of Costa’s calibre would likely prefer a club where he’s guaranteed regular playing time, which wouldn’t be the case with Ter Stegen in form.
“Also, if I were Diogo I don’t know if I would come to Barcelona to be a substitute.”
Barcelona are satisfied with its current goalkeeper lineup and, for now, wishes Costa well in his endeavours at Porto.
“We’re not considering signing him and if I were him I would want to go to a club where I knew I was going to play. We’re happy with the goalkeepers we have right now. I wish him luck and, first of all, that he wins with Porto,” he added.
