I'm not taking Deco's words as complete truth. He's doing the motivational talk for MATS and Pena, as well, in the press. SDs at Barca are seasonal - by 2026 Deco could be out and hired in a petrodollar state to "develop" football. And let's not forget our third keeper, who's name I cannot type without Internet's help.
The times when MATS inability could be swept under the rug by poorer performers as Pique, dealing with Shakira and business, excuses are in the past. I understand the captaincy was given due to 10 years spent at the club, but leadership qualities are hardly professed on the pitch. Flick seems no BS, I'm sure he'd bench MATS if he keeps the Monaco-type of sabotages.
After last El Clasico the whole team gathered around Pena, it feels he's supported more by the young core and also the skepticism on him is immense.