Barcelona endured a disappointing 3–2 defeat at home to Villarreal, just as they were preparing to celebrate their La Liga title victory. Having already secured the championship in the previous round, the Catalan giants approached the game with little at stake, which reflected in their lackluster performance.
They remain comfortably at the summit of the league table with 85 points, while Villarreal, aiming to strengthen their European qualification hopes, currently occupy fifth place with 67 points.
Both teams are set to play their final fixtures of the season on May 25. Barcelona will travel to San Mamés to face Athletic Bilbao, while Villarreal will conclude their campaign against Sevilla at their home ground, La Cerámica.
Meanwhile, significant developments are unfolding behind the scenes at Barcelona. Reports from sources close to the club’s technical staff suggest that newly appointed coach Hansi Flick is having serious reservations about goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen’s role moving forward.
Despite Ter Stegen’s long and decorated career at Camp Nou, Flick’s concerns were reportedly heightened after the recent defeat to Villarreal, where Barcelona conceded three goals on home soil.
Flick is said to question whether Ter Stegen still possesses the consistency and commanding presence required to lead the team from the back, particularly as Barcelona look to rebuild under new leadership.
The coach reportedly fears that the German international’s declining form could jeopardize the stability and competitiveness of the squad in crucial matches, especially in the demanding environment of European competitions.
Internal reports indicate that Flick has already voiced his concerns directly to club president Joan Laporta.
In what’s described as a firm and candid conversation, the coach allegedly warned that persisting with Ter Stegen as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper could have damaging consequences for the club’s ambitions next season. He emphasized the urgent need for a goalkeeper with stronger mental resilience and the ability to perform reliably under pressure.
Although Ter Stegen has been a key figure for Barcelona in recent years, helping the club through multiple title campaigns, Flick appears determined to usher in a new era at Camp Nou.
The situation leaves Barcelona’s management facing a difficult decision as they weigh the loyalty owed to one of their longest-serving players against the vision and requirements of their new manager.
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