As Barcelona gear up for a another chapter under manager Hansi Flick, a surprising twist involving veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen has emerged.
The 33-year-old German is considering undergoing back surgery, which could keep him sidelined for up to four months. But while this sounds like a blow, his absence could provide Barcelona with a timely opportunity—both on the pitch and in the books.
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Surgery or Conservative Treatment? Ter Stegen’s Crossroads
According to ESPN and Spanish media, Ter Stegen is weighing two options: opt for conservative rehab and hope for a quick return, or go under the knife and miss significant action. The second route would mean a lengthy recovery period, potentially ruling him out until the end of 2025.
The injury has already forced him to miss preseason training, and with Barça scheduled to tour Asia next week for friendlies in Japan and South Korea, his absence is all but confirmed.
But here’s the twist: this forced break could ironically benefit Barcelona.
Why Ter Stegen’s Absence May Help Barcelona
Barcelona continues to wrestle with financial fair play regulations, especially regarding player registration. Their recent €25 million signing of Joan García is currently facing registration challenges due to La Liga’s salary cap rules.
If Ter Stegen undergoes surgery, Barça could temporarily unregister him for the first half of the season. This would free up wage space and allow the club to officially register Joan García, something they’ve done before with Andreas Christensen in a similar scenario.
| Scenario | Outcome for Barcelona |
|---|---|
| Ter Stegen out 4 months (surgery) | Register Joan García immediately |
| Ter Stegen stays active but doesn’t play | García’s registration delayed |
| Ter Stegen transferred | High wages offloaded, cap freed |
The Changing Guard: García and Szczęsny In, Ter Stegen Out?
Ter Stegen’s long reign as Barcelona’s No.1 appears to be under serious threat. With García being groomed for a starting role and Wojciech Szczęsny signing a fresh deal until 2027, the writing may already be on the wall.
Sources suggest Hansi Flick has informed Ter Stegen that he is no longer the first choice, though the club hasn’t confirmed this publicly. Add in his recent knee issues (which limited him to just nine appearances last season), and it’s clear why Barça is considering a changing of the guard.
| Goalkeeper | Age | Status | Contract Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joan García | 23 | Expected starter | 2029 |
| Wojciech Szczęsny | 34 | Backup/rotation option | 2027 |
| Marc-André ter Stegen | 33 | Injured/uncertain future | 2028 |
| Iñaki Peña | 25 | Fourth-choice/loan option | 2026 |
What’s Next for Ter Stegen?
A proud professional with 422 appearances and 17 trophies since joining Barcelona in 2014, Ter Stegen now faces a career-defining decision. Surgery would mean not just a physical setback, but a possible January move to gain game time ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where he hopes to succeed Manuel Neuer as Germany’s No.1.
Reports suggest that if sidelined, he may explore opportunities elsewhere, especially if Hansi Flick continues to favor García.
Barcelona’s Bigger Picture
While losing a player of Ter Stegen’s caliber is never ideal, his absence could actually bring clarity and cap space. It could enable Barcelona to officially register their new goalkeeper, reset their wage structure, and perhaps pave the way for a new era between the sticks.
In essence, what may seem like a problem on the surface might just turn out to be strategic timing for a club in need of financial flexibility and tactical renewal.
Read More: Manchester City Secure Sverre Nypan in £12.5m Transfer: Norway’s Rising Star Joins Until 2030
FAQs
Why is Ter Stegen considering surgery?
He has a back issue that has kept him from training. Surgery could resolve the problem long-term, but recovery would take months.
How would Ter Stegen’s absence help Barcelona?
Barça could temporarily unregister him and create salary cap space to register new signing Joan García.
Is Ter Stegen still Barcelona’s No.1 goalkeeper?
As per reports, Hansi Flick has indicated he is no longer first-choice, with Joan García expected to start.
Will Barcelona sell Ter Stegen this summer?
The club is open to offers, but Ter Stegen currently prefers to stay. A January move is more likely if he recovers in time.
What does this mean for Ter Stegen’s international career?
He needs regular playing time to retain his spot as Germany’s top keeper ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
