24-year-old Barcelona star regarded highly in the dressing room, has earned teammates’ respect

Barcelona goalkeeper Inaki Pena has started each of their last three games and everything indicates that he warrants a consistent run within the first team.

However, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen at the helm, the 24-year-old is likely to return to the bench once the German returns from his injury.

Interestingly enough, a report from Mundo Deportivo has claimed that Pena considers his competition, Ter Stegen, his idol, friend, and even his teacher.

Pena is valued in the locker room

Pena’s unforgettable performance against Atletico Madrid left an indelible mark, earning him admiration, respect and recognition within the team.

The goalkeeper has earned deep affection from his teammates for his quiet personality and yet, he still needs to do much more to establish himself as a first-team regular.

As a technically proficient goalkeeper, Pena excels in reading the game and anticipating the movements of the opposition. Furthermore, everyone in the locker room appreciates that he does not lose his cool during opposition attacks.

There is an observation that he has improved a lot aerially and his passing prowess has gotten better as well.

He has learned from the best

It is to be noted that former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes served as Pena’s initial idol, a guiding figure and representative of La Masia’s goalkeeping legacy.

Successively, Ter Stegen took up the mantle, and while initially he was unfamiliar with the German, the young goalkeeper now regards him as the world’s best.

Ter Stegen’s character, personality, and skill have pleasantly surprised Pena, earning him the tag of being the perfect keeper. 

Additionally, the German stopper offers guidance is always attentive to the 24-year-old’s progress, and provides valuable advice upon request whenever needed.

This attribute of the veteran has brought both goalkeepers closer and despite being his direct competitor within the team, he looks up to him as an idol.

With Ter Stegen expected to undergo surgery and remain out of action for an extended period, Pena will continue getting starting opportunities for Barcelona.