FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has confirmed that his decision to bench goalkeeper Iñaki Peña during the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Club, opting instead for Polish international Wojciech Szczesny, was due to a disciplinary issue. Peña reportedly arrived late to a training session, prompting Flick to take firm action.

Zero Tolerance for Tardiness

Speaking at the pre-final press conference ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Real Madrid, Flick revealed that this was not the first instance of tardiness this season, making his decision to enforce discipline unavoidable.

“This is the third time this season a player has arrived late to a training session. They must be punctual—they are professional players. I had no other choice,” Flick stated, emphasizing the importance of discipline within the squad.

The German coach’s stance highlights his commitment to maintaining professionalism and focus, particularly as Barcelona looks to secure its 15th Spanish Super Cup title.

The Goalkeeping Dilemma: Who Will Start in the Final?

With the disciplinary measure already applied, Flick declined to confirm who would start in goal for the decisive match against Real Madrid at the King Abdullah Stadium in Jeddah. Both Peña and Szczesny have performed admirably in recent appearances, leaving the decision tied to the tactical approach for the final.

“I never reveal who will start. Both have had very good games, and it depends on what we plan tactically. I can’t say more. But I want to make it clear that there’s not as much noise as people think. Both are professionals, and there will be no issues,” Flick reassured, downplaying the controversy.