He already saw that Flick does not hesitate to make changes to the starting lineup, and wants to start in the 2026 World Cup by any means
Ter Stegen's Potential Exit: Barcelona Goalkeeper Dilemma and World Cup Ambitions
FC Barcelona goalkeeper and captain Marc-André ter Stegen is considering leaving the club if they end up signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García, as his main priority is to be a starter to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
The developing saga illustrates the fine line between club loyalty and country ambitions for one of Barça's veteran leaders.
The Central Conundrum: Playing Time vs. Club Legacy
Aged 33, Ter Stegen is at a career crossroads:
- Contract Status: Signed until 2028 on one of Barcelona's highest salaries
- Recent Concerns: Returned from long-term injury with questioned levels of performance
- Club Policy: Barcelona's pursuit of 24-year-old Joan García (€25m release clause) as long-term replacement
The German national, who spent years waiting behind Manuel Neuer for the national team, now stands to lose his club and country starting spot if he accepts a backup role.
His answer has been decisive - sources indicate he "doesn't rule out leaving Barça if he can't get the starting role".
Hansi Flick's Influence and Tactical Changes
Things have been complicated by the arrival of manager Hansi Flick:
- Flick has been open to making bold lineup changes
- Barcelona board held a meeting to talk about selling Ter Stegen if García signs
- The club initially had García in mind to fight for starting place immediately
Ter Stegen's side was "extremely angry" at these intentions, so a compromise solution could be that García could be signed but then loaned out ( possibly to Valencia ).
However, this solution is unclear since García needs starting guarantees .
Contractual Complexities and Domino Effects
There are a number of intertwined issues involved here:
1. Linked Departures: Ter Stegen's exit would result in goalkeeping coach José Ramón de la Fuente also departing due to contractual link
2. Replacement Ready: Toni Tapalovic (Flick's former Bayern assistant) would take over as goalkeeping coach
3. Wage Considerations: Ter Stegen's high salary makes a transfer more difficult
4. Limited Options: Currently only Saudi clubs showing interest
World Cup Dreams Driving Decisions
The 2026 World Cup is on Ter Stegen's mind:
- Finally Germany's 1 after Neuer retirement
- Must play regularly to keep national team place
- "His dream is to play for Germany.and the only way is having regular game-time at Barcelona"
This international ambition explains his hardline stance, with reports suggesting he'll depart "by any means" to obtain playing time .
Current Standoff and Possible Outcomes
As of May 2025, several things can happen:
1. Ter Stegen Stays: García loaned out or transfer collapses
2. García Joins: Ter Stegen forces transfer
3. Compromise: Share duties, though unlikely since both want starter guarantees
The situation remains fluid, with Ter Stegen's fate to be decided once García makes his decision in the next few days.
The only guarantee is that Barcelona's goalkeeping position - for so long taken for granted with their captain - has now become one of the summer's most intriguing dramas, combining sporting merit, contractual fine print, and personal ambition on football's biggest stages.
Great news
ReplyDelete