Barcelona is set to face Rayo Vallecano tonight at the Olympic Stadium of Luis Companys in a crucial La Liga match, marking the 24th round of the competition.
The Catalan club is eager to secure a victory against their Madrid-based opponents, hoping to capitalize on recent setbacks suffered by Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
Both teams at the top of the table dropped points in their previous matches, drawing 1-1 against Osasuna and Celta Vigo, respectively. A win for Barcelona would help them close the gap and strengthen their position in the title race.
Meanwhile, former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has sparked controversy with his criticism of coach Hansi Flick’s handling of the goalkeeping situation.
Speaking to Radio Catalunya, Puyol expressed his discontent over Flick’s decision regarding Iñaki Peña. He accused the German coach of misleading the young goalkeeper by initially assuring him of a starting role over Wojciech Szczesny, only to later sideline him.
Puyol argued that Peña had consistently performed well, demonstrating his capabilities and professionalism, yet Flick benched him at the first available opportunity. Since then, Peña has only featured in one match, and that too due to Szczesny’s suspension.
The legendary defender questioned Flick’s reasoning, stating that his words contradicted his actions. According to Puyol, the notion of “worthiness” became meaningless when Szczesny was guaranteed a starting spot regardless of his performances.
Further criticizing the decision, Puyol pointed out that Szczesny, who was initially retired before joining Barcelona, does not fit the club’s playing style.
He emphasized that the Polish goalkeeper had never been considered among the world’s elite goalkeepers and lacked the qualities necessary to thrive in Barcelona’s system. Moreover, he suggested that every time Szczesny moves outside the penalty area, there is a sense of unease because he is unfamiliar with the tactical demands of the team.
Puyol did not hold back in questioning Flick’s overall approach. He found it unfair that a promising young goalkeeper like Peña was completely sidelined without a valid explanation.
He noted that Flick’s justifications ranged from superstitions—such as associating past successes with Ter Stegen—to vague remarks about Peña being a good player. Ultimately, Puyol stressed that the real issue with Flick’s decision-making was not just fan frustration but the impact on players.
He concluded that Peña had been treated unfairly and that his best option might be to leave Barcelona in search of better opportunities.
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