Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, has indicated that Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen needs to decide his future, following statements that Joan García is now the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
The 33-year-old Ter Stegen has struggled with injuries, making only nine appearances last season due to a knee issue and subsequently missing the start of the current season after back surgery.
Despite returning to fitness earlier this month, Ter Stegen has found himself on the bench for the last two matches, as García, a €25 million ($29 million) signing from Espanyol, has taken over the starting role.
When questioned about Ter Stegen potentially leaving in January to pursue a spot in Germany‘s World Cup squad next summer, Flick stated, “This is his decision. We talked about his situation, and I have great respect for Marc; he’s an outstanding goalkeeper. Ultimately, it’s his choice to make.”
Since joining from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014, Ter Stegen has made 422 appearances and collected 17 trophies, but recent form has diminished his standing.
He may not see playing time in Tuesday’s Copa del Rey matchup against fourth-tier Guadalajara, especially since García will be given a break ahead of their LaLiga clash with Villarreal. Flick has not yet decided if Ter Stegen or Wojciech Szczesny will step in for that match.
“Joan will rest,” Flick confirmed. “But it’s not the day to make decisions on who will play. I’ll wait until tomorrow. Marc is an exceptional goalkeeper, and we are fortunate to have three excellent options. We’ll see what unfolds.”
Flick acknowledged that while García has emerged as the first choice, both Szczęsny and Ter Stegen have also shown their importance to the team. “Tek had an outstanding season last year, helping us win three titles, and he has provided stability when Joan was injured,” he stated.
As the holders of the Copa del Rey, Barça will face Guadalajara, who progressed after defeating second-division team AD Ceuta.
Flick believes his team is prepared to tackle the challenge of a lower league opponent and aims to carry their momentum—seven consecutive league victories, which have established a seven-point lead over Real Madrid—into the cup competition. “It’s all about the attitude and mentality we display,” he emphasized. “The players understand the importance of how we start this game. Winning is mandatory for us in matches like this, as we are the favorites in LaLiga.”