Barcelona Prepares for Key Clash Against Alavés as Messi Weighs in on Goalkeeper Controversy
Barcelona is gearing up to face Deportivo Alavés today in La Liga’s 22nd round, with the team aiming for a crucial victory to close the gap on league leaders Real Madrid.
Currently sitting in third place with 42 points, Barcelona trails Madrid (49 points) by seven points, while Atlético Madrid holds second place with 45 points. Hansi Flick, the team’s German head coach, is determined to continue the team’s progress and secure key points in the title race.
Messi Defends Inaki Peña Amid Goalkeeping Controversy
As Barcelona prepares for this important match, Lionel Messi has voiced his concern over the treatment of goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, who has been sidelined in favor of Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny. Despite a string of costly mistakes from Szczęsny, Flick has continued to prefer him over Peña, sparking debate.
Messi, who closely follows Barcelona’s performances, urged Flick to reconsider his decision, arguing that Peña deserves to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.
“Iñaki doesn’t deserve this. He must return as the starting goalkeeper immediately. Flick’s preference for the Polish keeper is jeopardizing Barcelona’s season,” Messi stated, emphasizing that such decisions could harm the team’s title ambitions.
With tensions rising, Barcelona’s approach to their goalkeeping situation could be pivotal in their pursuit of domestic and European success.