As Barcelona prepares for a promising start to the 2025 La Liga season, internal tensions are quietly brewing, threatening to disrupt the team’s momentum and influence final squad decisions.
While the club projects an image of stability on the surface, sources suggest that manager Hansi Flick is dealing with unresolved squad issues that could shape the remaining days of the summer transfer window.
The German coach has already made it clear that he intends to streamline his squad and has no patience for players who do not fit into his vision for the season.
Some situations, such as the loan exits of Ansu Fati and Mika Mármol, have been handled, but others—most notably that of Iñaki Peña—are proving far more difficult to resolve.
Peña, a Spanish goalkeeper and once a promising prospect, has found himself completely frozen out under Flick’s leadership.
According to those close to the situation, Flick has directly told Peña that he is not part of the plans for the upcoming season—even as a backup to the currently injured Marc-André ter Stegen.
The coach’s stance is firm: unless Peña leaves, he won’t be included in matchday squads at all.
This decision marks a significant shift in Peña’s future. Just months ago, he appeared set to extend his contract with the club.
But after a strategic review by club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, the renewal talks were shelved, largely due to Flick’s lack of interest in retaining him.
Barcelona is currently hoping to sell Peña for a fee in the region of €10 million.
However, finding a buyer is proving difficult. Clubs like Real Betis and Celta Vigo, once interested, have reportedly backed off.
Peña is open to a move but is also considering staying at the club until next summer, when he can leave on a free transfer—potentially gaining more leverage in negotiations.
Meanwhile, Barcelona continues to work on moving other out-of-favor players as the transfer window nears its end.
Flick has made it clear that he will not compromise on his vision, even if it results in financial losses for the club. His message is direct: only those who align with his project will be part of the team this season.