Moveing Away from the Team:
Marc-André ter Stegen, the long-standing number one goalkeeper for Barcelona, faces an uncertain future at the La Liga giants following the arrival of Joan García. Ter Stegen has been training alone and has been absent from team sessions since the start of pre-season, with the primary reason being the signing of García from Espanyol [1][3].
The German coach, Hansi Flick, is reportedly García's preferred candidate as the new number one at Barcelona, pushing Ter Stegen down the pecking order [1][2]. Barcelona's decision to demote Ter Stegen has strained his relationship with the club, with the goalkeeper still feeling capable of being the first choice [2].
Ter Stegen's situation is further complicated by a back issue, which may require surgery, potentially keeping him out for four months [1]. Despite this, Ter Stegen has expressed a desire to stay at Barcelona and compete for his place, but given the club's stance and the new signing, this seems unlikely to result in him regaining his number one status [2][3].
Galatasaray has expressed interest in signing Ter Stegen, offering a four-year contract if he is released on a free transfer. This could provide Ter Stegen with regular playing time, which is crucial for his World Cup aspirations [2]. AS Monaco is also mentioned as a potential new employer for Ter Stegen. However, the German goalkeeper is under pressure to act due to a potential bench role in the club affecting his situation in the national team [2].
Barcelona's decision to demote Ter Stegen has drawn criticism for the club's handling of the situation. Ter Stegen's contract is still valid for three more years at Barcelona, and he has won the Champions League (2015) and the Spanish championship six times with the club [3]. Wojciech Szczesny, 35, has recently received a new contract at Barcelona, adding another goalkeeper to the mix.
As Ter Stegen continues individual training, it remains to be seen whether he will choose to stay and compete for a backup role or seek a move to a club where he can secure regular playing time. With the World Cup on the horizon, Ter Stegen's decision could have significant implications for both his career and his national team prospects.
[1] - Source: Sport [2] - Source: Marca [3] - Source: AS [4] - Source: Mundo Deportivo
Ter Stegen's uncertain future at Barcelona, despite his lengthy tenure as the first-choice goalkeeper, is potentially being threatened by the arrival of Joan García. The German goalkeeper's possible departure from La Liga could open up opportunities in European leagues like Laliga, specifically with Galatasaray offering a four-year contract if he becomes a free agent.
Given his world-class abilities and numerous La Liga titles, including the Champions League in 2015, Ter Stegen's decision to either stay and compete for a backup role or seek a move to a club providing regular playing time could significantly influence his career and national team prospects, especially as the World Cup approaches.
