The injury to Marc-Andre ter Stegen has once again presented Inaki Pena with an opportunity to prove himself as a reliable option in goal for FC Barcelona.
And even though there have been some jittery moments along the way, the 25-year-old La Masia star has stood up to the challenge thus far.
Pena has had to bide his time for his chance at Barça and will be hoping to make the most of Ter Stegen’s absence for the remainder of the season.
But once the German international returns, the Spanish shot-stopper will have to return to being the understudy – something that might lead to a possible departure.
Girona interested
Pena’s contract with Barcelona expires in the summer of 2026, meaning he will enter the last 12 months of his deal next year.
With there being plans to sign another goalkeeper, the La Masia graduate’s future is far from certain.
Amidst this, Fichajes reports that Barça’s local rivals Girona have expressed an interest in signing the 25-year-old.
Inaki Pena Barcelona
Inaki Pena will have one year left on his contract in the summer. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Michel’s team are making giant strides both in Spain and Europe and are seen as an attractive destination for Pena, who could be tempted to move on from Barça in search of regular first-team football.
With a clear commitment to young talent and a style of play that favours technical goalkeepers with good ball handling, the Catalan team seems to be a natural fit for the player trained at La Masia.
The summer transfer window is still very far away and a lot could change between now and then.
Pena, for his part, has proven himself to be capable of cutting it at the biggest stage and it remains to be seen if he continues his career at Barcelona or takes up a fresh challenge in his career before next season.