The Future of Marc-Andre ter Stegen at Barcelona: A Decision in His Hands
Hansi Flick has opened up about Marc-Andre ter Stegen's situation, emphasizing that the choice of staying at Barcelona lies with the goalkeeper himself. With the current number one, Joan Garcia, set to be rested for the upcoming fixture, speculation surrounds Ter Stegen's potential return to the starting XI. Let's delve deeper into the latest developments regarding the German goalkeeper's future.
Hansi Flick has confirmed that the decision regarding Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future lies solely with the goalkeeper himself, insisting the club is happy to keep him despite his reduced role. The Barcelona boss addressed the situation ahead of the Copa del Rey fixture against Guadalajara, where he revealed that current number one Joan Garcia will be dropped to the bench to rest.Ter Stegen, who has been a pillar of the Barcelona defence for over a decade, has found himself in an unfamiliar position this season following the ascent of summer signing Joan Garcia to the status of undisputed number one. The German only recently returned from a long spell out following surgery, but he had been told before the season began that he would not be called upon this season, with Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny getting preference ahead of him. With his hopes of playing at the 2026 World Cup depending on his playing time, the 33-year-old may look for a move away in the January window if there is no route back to the first-team at Camp Nou. However, Flick was quick to dismiss any notion that the club is looking to push the goalkeeper out, emphasising his personal respect for Ter Stegen while acknowledging the player's autonomy in this scenario."I think it is his decision," Flick said at a press conference. "We have spoken about his situation and I respect Marc a lot because he is a great goalkeeper and personally is a good person for the team. But in the end, it is his decision and it is he who must decide it, not me."The press conference also covered the immediate team selection for the midweek trip to face Guadalajara. With the fixture schedule remaining congested, questions were raised regarding potential rotation in the goalkeeper position. Flick confirmed that there would be a change between the sticks for this specific match, ruling out a start for the current number one. He stopped short of confirming if Szczesny will be given the nod, leaving room for suggestions Ter Stegen could make his first appearance of the season."We are going to give Joan a rest tomorrow," Flick stated regarding Joan Garcia. "First of all, we want to talk to the players and before the match, we will tell them who is going to play. Today is not the day to make decisions, we are in the recovery process."Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!The Barcelona boss subsequently discussed the broader state of his goalkeeping department. He referenced the depth available to him, mentioning Ter Stegen alongside Szczęsny who came out of retirement to act as a backup option and was part of the squad that secured silverware last season.Flick reiterated the current pecking order while praising the contributions of all three senior goalkeepers in the squad."Marc is a fantastic goalkeeper and in goal, we have three excellent goalkeepers," Flick continued. "We will see what happens. I have already said that Joan is the number one and from there we will see what happens. Tek played last season and we won three titles with him. This season when he was injured he gave us stability. Tek in the dressing room is also a very important player for us."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThe game against third-tier side Guadalajara will take place on Wednesday with Flick's side aiming to reach the round of 16 of the competition. Three days later, they will return to La Liga action with a trip to Villarreal as they aim to at least maintain, if not extend, their four-point lead over Real Madrid at the top of the table. Villarreal, however, are third and eight points behind Barcelona after winning a sixth consecutive game in the Spanish top-flight at the weekend.
The Choice Lies with Marc-Andre ter Stegen
Hansi Flick has clarified that the decision on Marc-Andre ter Stegen's future rests solely with the player. Despite his reduced role this season, Flick expressed the club's willingness to retain the experienced goalkeeper, highlighting their respect for his contributions both on and off the field. With Ter Stegen's aspirations for the 2026 World Cup contingent on regular game time, the 33-year-old might consider his options in the upcoming January transfer window if a pathway to the first team at Camp Nou remains elusive.
Potential Return to Starting XI
The revelation that current number one Joan Garcia will be benched for the next game has sparked speculation about Marc-Andre ter Stegen's potential resurgence in the starting lineup. Following his return from injury, Ter Stegen faces the prospect of reclaiming his place in the team, with Flick's comments hinting at a possible opportunity for the German goalkeeper. While no definitive decisions have been made, the upcoming fixture could mark a significant juncture in Ter Stegen's season.
Goalkeeping Depth and Competition
Hansi Flick addressed the depth in the goalkeeping department, acknowledging the quality of all three senior goalkeepers at Barcelona. He praised Ter Stegen's abilities while emphasizing the importance of competition and squad depth. Flick's remarks underscored the value that Ter Stegen brings not only on the pitch but also within the team dynamic, highlighting his integral role both in matches and behind the scenes.
Upcoming Fixtures and Expectations
As Barcelona prepares for their Copa del Rey fixture against Guadalajara, followed by a crucial La Liga clash against Villarreal, the focus remains on maintaining their standing at the top of the table. With Villarreal posing a significant challenge, Flick's side will aim to continue their strong start to the season and extend their lead over rivals Real Madrid. The forthcoming matches present opportunities for players like Ter Stegen to make their mark and influence the team's pursuit of silverware.


