Barcelona Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen Breaks Silence on Shocking Exit Decision
Marc-André ter Stegen has been excluded from Barcelona's roster for their Champions League clash against Slavia Prague on Wednesday following confirmation of his loan transfer to Girona, as announced by coach Hansi Flick.
The summer signing of Joan García from Espanyol clearly indicated Barcelona's willingness to part ways with Ter Stegen, whose three significant injuries across the last three seasons have severely restricted his goalkeeping duties.
Ter Stegen has been battling a back problem for most of this campaign, making his comeback in December following a five-month absence, having previously torn his patellar tendon and missed three months of the 2023–24 season due to another back issue.
Upon his return to full fitness, Flick gave Ter Stegen a single Copa del Rey outing but continued to trust García, whose selection in the recent cup triumph over Racing clearly indicated that, except in emergencies, the German would not feature again this term.
Girona recognized a chance to secure Ter Stegen's services and have finalized a loan agreement for the German until the season's conclusion. Under the arrangement, Barcelona will shoulder most of his substantial wages.
While some details remain to be completed, Ter Stegen did not join the Catalan club for their match against Slavia as he concentrates on finalizing his temporary move.
"He informed us this morning about his move to Girona," Flick stated during his pre-match press briefing. "Marc is an exceptional goalkeeper. We wish him success. He requires playing time to secure his World Cup spot this summer."
Ter Stegen the 'Role Model' Leaves on Good Terms
Ter Stegen the 'Role Model' Leaves on Good Terms
The loan departure concludes a situation that became contentious during the summer but was ultimately resolved amicably by all parties.
Ter Stegen was determined to remain and compete for his position despite García's arrival, who is considered among the world's elite goalkeepers, but his back injury prevented him from playing for several months. The length of his absence was critical as La Liga regulations allowed Barcelona to exclude his salary from their wage limit and allocate that space to other players if he missed more than four months.
The goalkeeper used social media to assert he would only be sidelined for three months and initially declined to allow Barcelona access to his medical records. The club then removed Ter Stegen's captaincy until he eventually relented and a four-month absence was verified.
Ter Stegen's injury was essential for Barcelona to register García initially. The new acquisition has been outstanding in Catalonia this season, but Ter Stegen remains well-regarded within the squad and leaves with the support of left-back Alejandro Balde.
"Marc serves as an incredible role model for me," he commented. "I wish him tremendous success; I'm confident he'll excel in this new journey. I'm pleased for him."