Barcelona legend Carles Puyol has openly criticized Hansi Flick’s handling of goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, questioning the German coach’s fairness and decision-making.
Speaking to Radio Catalunya, Puyol expressed frustration over Flick’s promise to Peña that he would be the starting goalkeeper over Wojciech Szczesny, only for the young Spaniard to be sidelined at the first opportunity. Since then, Peña has played just one match due to Szczesny’s suspension.
Puyol argued that Flick’s reasoning contradicts the concept of merit, stating: “Peña proved his worth and showed professionalism, yet he has been unfairly demoted. Flick claims Szczesny will play no matter what, making the word ‘worthiness’ meaningless.”
He also criticized Szczesny’s suitability for Barcelona’s system, pointing out that he was never a natural fit for the club’s style and was not even considered as a potential signing before his brief retirement.
Puyol concluded by questioning why a promising young player like Peña has been completely cast aside, warning that Flick’s lack of transparency and fairness could harm the trust of his squad. He suggested that Peña’s only real solution might be to leave Barcelona.
