As Barcelona prepares to take on Benfica in their seventh Champions League group stage match, manager Hansi Flick is reportedly set to make a significant change in goal. According to Polish news outlet Meczyki, veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny will start ahead of Inaki Pena against the Portuguese side.
This decision is part of Flick’s plan to rotate his goalkeepers between La Liga and the Champions League. Szczesny, who came out of retirement to join Barcelona following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury, has already made three appearances for the club this season. He featured in both Super Cup matches, keeping one clean sheet and conceding two goals.
Szczesny’s experience in the Champions League is undeniable, having played in 68 matches throughout his career. His last appearance in the competition came in November 2022, when he played for Juventus against Paris Saint-Germain. Although he conceded two goals in that match, Szczesny will be looking to make a positive impact against Benfica.
Related Posts:
With Szczesny set to start, Barcelona will be hoping for a much-needed win after a disappointing outing against Getafe over the weekend. Flick’s decision to rotate his goalkeepers may raise some eyebrows, but Szczesny’s experience and expertise make him a reliable choice for the crucial Champions League clash.
and then