Barcelona opinion: Barca’s plans to promote Inaki Pena is a wise move
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Inaki Pena, Barcelona‘s reserves goalkeeper is set to become the second choice for Marc-Andre ter Stegen following the injury of Neto.
The recently-acquired Brazilian keeper suffered a fracture on his left wrist and will be absent for around 5 weeks.
This has now given the room for the highly-talented youngster Pena, who is regarded by many as the natural successor to Ter Stegen.
Pena – another prodigious homegrown talent striving for spotlight
Falls into the category of the sweeper-keeper, the 20-year-old is well known for his contribution to Barca’s U19 side in lifting the UEFA Youth League title in 2018. In the process, Pena sported some spectacular displays, eventually achieving 9 clean sheets in 8 games.
The Spaniard was a regular for the Barca’s B team last season, managing 5 clean sheets in 20 appearances.
Pena travelled with the main team last term on many occasions but his dream was never fulfilled as he couldn’t make a single appearance.
Now, after all the hard work that has gone under the radar so far, the Spaniard can see the light at the end of the tunnel
Carries the typical Barca archetype
The Catalans have produced only a countable set of goalkeepers in recent years because of the dominance of the German No.1, Ter Stegen.
Whilst it proves to be difficult for many players to disrupt the hegemony of the former Borussia Monchengladbach keeper, the Catalans should envisage the situation of his absence- Thanks to Ter Stegen who remained intact over the course.
Pena tends to bring the same level of success that the German did with the Catalans if only he is guided in the right direction.
Talking about the playing style, the Spanish prospect’s intelligence with the hands and feet goes hand in hand, and he carries an overall style that is synonymous with the club.
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Though they couldn’t preserve talents like Jordi Masip in the past, Barca now have the privilege of owning a special talent called Pena, who shouldn’t be missed by them at any cost.
Final verdict
The Catalans are heading to the new season with a reinforced squad, propelled by the ambitions to re-establish their reign in Europa League.
Neto’s injury at the moment proves to be a set back yet they can’t overcome it by betting on the young talent, Pena.