Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is set to receive medical clearance next week after a four-month absence, though sporting director Deco has questioned his long-term future at the club.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen is nearing his return to action for Barcelona. The German goalkeeper, who underwent surgery on July 29 for persistent back problems, is expected to receive medical clearance next week.
He participated in training with the first-team squad on Monday, ahead of the league match against Atletico Madrid. The German keeper worked alongside Iñaki Peña and Joan Garcia, albeit at a lower intensity than his teammates.
Addressing Ter Stegen’s potential return, Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, discussed the goalkeeper’s future and a hypothetical winter departure. Deco stated: “First, he must be available, and then he will compete for his place. He could be the third, second, or first goalkeeper. When we signed Joan Garcia, we knew he was for the present and the future, but everything was brought forward by Marc’s injury. No player has a guaranteed starting spot. The coach’s decisions are what matter.”
The German last featured for Barcelona on May 18, 2024, in the 2-3 league defeat against Villarreal. His subsequent long-term absence drew attention and allowed the registration of Joan Garcia, who has since become the team’s starter.
