There were offers for the goalkeeper to leave.
Speaking about his time at Barcelona and his hopes of becoming the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, Inaki Pena has been candid.
Because of Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s back injury and his summer contract extension until 2026, the young player is having a great run in the first team.
Pena, who received offers to relocate during the summer, explains his decision to remain at Camp Nou even though Ter Stegen is superior to him in the hierarchy.
“When Xavi arrived I’d been in the reserves for several years and was the first team’s third choice keeper. He felt I had the potential to play for the first team and he wanted to me to get playing time somewhere else.
“He helped me to get the loan deal with Galatasaray. He thought I did well and when I returned he told me he thought I was ready to compete with Marc. That’s why I signed a new contract last season.”
When Ter Stegen returns from injury, Pena will have to return to the bench, but he is keeping an eye on the German’s starting position.
“We all want to play. That’s why we train. If you are happy being a second choice goalkeeper than that is what you will always be,” he added.
“I know my place in this team, but if one day I become the first choice, so much the better.”
As Ter Stegen is not anticipated to make a full recovery from his injury until February, the goalkeeper will continue to play in goal for the time being.
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