Barcelona Drop Two Goalkeepers from Asia Tour as Flick Asserts Authority

Ter Stegen and Iñaki Peña left out of pre-season squad; replacements already chosen

Hansi Flick’s Barcelona era is already shaking up the squad, as the club prepares for its pre-season tour in Asia. Two high-profile goalkeepers Marc-André ter Stegen and Iñaki Peña have been left out of the traveling squad, signaling a shift in planning under the new manager.

Ter Stegen and Peña Missing from Squad

Barcelona resumed training on July 13 ahead of a series of friendlies in Asia. While fans expected a full-strength lineup to start the pre-season under Flick, the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Ter Stegen immediately raised eyebrows.

Even more surprising was the exclusion of Iñaki Peña, who had been widely seen as the club’s backup option. Peña will stay in Barcelona, with sources suggesting he is working on his departure from the club.

Peña’s Future Outside Camp Nou

According to journalist Sergi Capdevila, the decision to cut Peña was made by the Barcelona board and approved by Flick. The goalkeeper had been discontent for some time, particularly after he failed to receive more game time last season during Ter Stegen’s injury absence.

Peña is now expected to leave the club permanently, as he seeks a new opportunity with more playing time.

Flick Chooses New Goalkeeper Trio

With both Ter Stegen and Peña absent, Flick will rely on Joan García, Wojciech Szczęsny (reportedly close to finalizing a move), and young Diego Kochen for the club’s pre-season matches.

The decision marks a clear message from Flick: places in the squad will be earned, not guaranteed by seniority.

Asian Tour Kicks Off in Japan

Barcelona’s pre-season will begin in Japan, where the team will face Vissel Kobe, the former club of Barça legend Andrés Iniesta. The match is scheduled for July 27 at Noevir Stadium Kobe, marking the first glimpse of Flick’s plans in action.