Wojciech Szczesny says he completely understands Barcelona boss Hansi Flick's decision to start Inaki Pena ahead of him in goal this season.
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Szczesny comes out of retirementGoalkeeper signs for Barcelona Has no qualms about not starting yetFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The former Arsenal stopper retired from football in late August, only to reverse his decision and sign for Barcelona at the start of October. However, the 34-year-old is yet to make his debut for the Blaugrana, with Pena being preferred between the sticks. But the Pole holds no ill will to manager Flick, saying "if it's not broken, don't touch it".
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He explained to : "[Pena] hasn't given [Flick] any reason to leave him on the bench. We have talked a lot. I've already told the coach that I'm 100 per cent, but the team is working well. If it's not broken, don't touch it. If I were to put myself in the coach's shoes, I wouldn't play now either. I will have the opportunity to play later. Right now the team is working very well, that's what's important."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The former Juventus ace signed for Barcelona this month for the rest of the season following the long-term injury of first-choice keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Szczesny may get his chance in goal but for now, Barca are top of La Liga and are flying in the Champions League with Pena in goal. Until his form fades, the veteran may have to bide his time.
AFPWHAT NEXT?
Szczesny is likely to be on the bench once again for his first taste of El Clasico when Barcelona travel to bitter rivals Real Madrid on Saturday in a top of the table La Liga clash.
