A name many Barça fans may have forgotten, Iñaki Peña, is suddenly back in the headlines. According to Mundo Deportivo, the 26-year-old goalkeeper has renewed his contract with Barcelona until 2029.
Omo, this one shock me small — because the shot-stopper was already looking surplus to requirements at Camp Nou.
From Backup to 4th Choice
Peña has fallen far down the pecking order in Barcelona’s goalkeeping department. With Joan García arriving this summer and Marc-André ter Stegen now back fit, Peña has effectively been demoted to 4th-choice under coach Hansi Flick.
For a 26-year-old who needs regular football, that’s tough. And omo, everybody knows a goalkeeper can’t shine from the bench.
Loan Deal to Elche Incoming
But Barcelona seem to have found a solution. Mundo Deportivo reports that after signing his new deal, Peña will now go on loan to Elche.
The move will allow him to:
- Get regular playing time,
- Gain confidence,
- And possibly establish himself as a First Division goalkeeper.
The official announcement is expected within hours.
Why This Move Makes Sense
Instead of letting him walk away for free, Barça have chosen to secure his future long-term, while still letting him develop elsewhere. For the club, it’s a smart move — for the player, it’s a chance to prove himself again.
Omo, this gist sweet because it shows how even “forgotten” players can still turn things around.
