This past Friday, Barcelona were given an injury scare as first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was ruled out of Germany’s international friendlies due to a back problem.
The 31-year-old superstar is returning to Barcelona, potentially today, following which he will undergo tests to determine the extent and severity of his injury.
Reports suggest that the issue is nothing serious and that he may be ready to face Rayo Vallecano right after the international break, but nothing is certain until he is examined by the club’s medical staff.
Inaki Pena ready to go
But in case Ter Stegen is forced to miss a match or two because of the problem, backup goalkeeper Inaki Pena is prepared to step in and perform, reports German Bona of SPORT.
The 24-year-old has not yet been able to play in an official competition this season, but it was expected that he will get his chance either in the final UCL group stage game against Royal Antwerp or in the Copa del Rey in early 2024.
But with Ter Stegen’s injury scare, Pena could get his opportunity as early as next weekend against Rayo Vallecano.
The La Masia graduate has been under the shadows of his senior teammate, but is aware of his role and that he will be under scrutiny if he is called upon to play. And he is ready if needed.
