Marc-André ter Stegen’s future at Barcelona has once again been thrown into uncertainty. The German goalkeeper has suffered another physical setback, and the latest injury could significantly complicate the club’s plans to offload him during the transfer window.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ter Stegen’s medical condition will be reassessed next week. The results of those tests will be decisive in determining whether the player can return to full training or remain sidelined at the Joan Gamper training center.
Barcelona’s plans affected by new setback
Barcelona had been exploring the possibility of parting ways with the 31-year-old goalkeeper in order to reduce their wage bill ahead of the season. However, those plans stalled after Ter Stegen reportedly refused to allow his medical records to be shared with La Liga, a move that further complicated any potential transfer.
Interest from clubs such as Al-Nassr and Girona had emerged in recent weeks, but the recurrence of injury issues now places serious doubt over whether any deal can be completed in the short term.
Joan García takes over as first-choice goalkeeper
During Ter Stegen’s prolonged absence, Barcelona moved decisively in the market and signed Joan García, who has since established himself as the club’s undisputed number one. Veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny completes the goalkeeping options in the squad.
Ter Stegen has made limited appearances since returning, including a match against Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey, and has been named in squads on several occasions. Still, his role has clearly diminished following the club’s restructuring of the position.
World Cup hopes still alive for Ter Stegen
Despite the uncertainty at club level, Ter Stegen remains focused on a potential return to the German national team. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the goalkeeper is racing against time to regain full fitness and attract the attention of head coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Following Manuel Neuer’s retirement from international football, Oliver Baumann currently holds the starting spot for Germany. However, Ter Stegen’s experience including 44 caps for the four-time world champions keeps him firmly in contention should he manage a successful comeback.
