Barcelona delivered a commanding 5-0 triumph over Valencia during the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, firmly securing their position in the semi-final stage. They now join Real Sociedad, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid in what promises to be an intense next round. The highly anticipated draw for the semi-finals is scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, at the Spanish Football Federation’s headquarters.
Although the Catalan giants’ dominant performance drew widespread attention, the real talking point emerged after the game. Young rising star Lamine Yamal, along with key players Pedri and Raphinha, made an unexpected and bold request to manager Hansi Flick. According to reports from El Nacional, the trio approached Flick and urged him to reinstate goalkeeper Iñaki Peña as the starting shot-stopper.
Peña, who had been benched following the Spanish Super Cup match against Athletic Bilbao—where he reportedly arrived late to a pre-game team meeting—has since been overshadowed by current first-choice goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny. Despite his previous solid performances, Peña’s prolonged absence from the lineup has not gone unnoticed, and it seems to have affected his morale. He was visibly distant and did not join in the post-match celebrations following the team’s recent quarter-final success.
Recognizing their teammate’s discouragement, Yamal, Pedri, and Raphinha passionately conveyed their views to Flick. They reportedly insisted that Peña had demonstrated enough skill and dedication to warrant another opportunity between the posts. “We believe he has earned the right to play again,” the players are said to have expressed to the manager.
While Szczęsny’s performances have been commendable, the trio’s plea suggests they see Peña as a valuable asset who deserves to reclaim his spot. As the team prepares for crucial upcoming fixtures, including the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, Flick’s decision regarding the goalkeeper position may prove to be a critical factor in Barcelona’s pursuit of silverware.
