Barcelona Star Isolated in Solo Training Sessions as Transfer Rumors Intensify

Marc-André ter Stegen's position at Barcelona has become increasingly uncertain after the club resumed pre-season preparations over the weekend.

The Catalan giants have invested heavily in acquiring Joan García from local rivals Espanyol during this transfer window, with the 24-year-old Spanish keeper anticipated to become Hansi Flick's first-choice goalkeeper. Meanwhile, Wojciech Szczęsny has secured a fresh two-year deal to provide veteran support from the bench.

The German shot-stopper was already under pressure due to García's signing and was notably absent from the training session. Journalist Gerard Romero subsequently explained via social media that ter Stegen was conducting individual fitness work in the gymnasium, though he remains injury-free.

Following Sergi Roberto's exit last summer, ter Stegen was given the captain's armband—having only joined the leadership circle as fourth captain in 2022. However, a serious knee problem sidelined him for the majority of the previous campaign, and he hasn't regained the captaincy despite making a complete comeback.

The 33-year-old was reportedly eager to compete for his starting role, but his training absence strongly suggests that Flick has excluded him from his long-term vision.

Barcelona's financial situation hasn't improved dramatically by swapping ter Stegen for García, as both goalkeepers reportedly earn comparable wages of approximately €6.3 million ($7.4 million). However, with García now added to the payroll, moving ter Stegen on has become a pressing priority.

Turkish title holders Galatasaray, seeking a successor to club icon Fernando Muslera, have emerged as strong contenders in recent reports. Premier League clubs like Manchester United and Newcastle United, along with Italian giants Juventus, should seriously evaluate ter Stegen's availability.

His prospects of becoming Germany's number one for the 2026 World Cup, having consistently served as Manuel Neuer's understudy at previous major competitions, will largely hinge on securing regular playing time during the 2025–26 season.