Barcelona’s preparations for their upcoming La Liga fixtures have been far from quiet, with financial adjustments and squad reshuffling dominating headlines once again.
The Catalan giants are still balancing the need for stability on the pitch with the ongoing challenge of meeting strict financial fair play regulations.
Hansi Flick, who continues to implement his ideas at the club, has overseen a series of changes in recent weeks as Barcelona look to remain competitive both domestically and in Europe.
The squad has been in a period of transition, with players moving out and others coming in as the club searches for the right balance.
Now, just before their clash with Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona have confirmed a move that could prove vital in ensuring depth in a key position.
Veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has officially been registered and added to Barcelona’s squad list ahead of the Vallecano match.
The Polish shot-stopper, who came out of retirement last season to assist the team, is now fully available for Flick’s selection.
The decision arrives at an ideal moment after Barcelona were left without a recognised back-up goalkeeper following the departure of Inaki Pena.
Confirmation came on Saturday night, when Szczesny’s name reappeared on the official squad list on the website, signalling that the club had managed to make the necessary financial adjustments to register him.
Barcelona’s financial manoeuvring was key in making this possible.
Pena was loaned out to Elche, Jan Virgili completed a move to Mallorca, and Oriol Romeu’s contract was terminated by mutual agreement.
These exits provided enough breathing space to ensure Wojciech Szczesny could be added back into the team.
Pena’s renewal until 2029, structured to spread wages over a longer period, was also an important factor in easing the salary cap.
With registration confirmed, Szczesny will step into the role Pena previously filled, though Flick’s plans for his usage remain unclear.
Last season, even with Pena available, the Polish veteran still featured in competitive games, suggesting he may be trusted beyond just sitting on the bench.
Looking ahead, Barcelona will now shift focus towards finalising the registration of Roony Bardghji, but for now, fans can take comfort knowing an experienced figure like Szczesny is once again part of the squad, offering Flick both depth and reassurance in a crucial position.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
