Barcelona is currently undergoing significant changes, and one of the most sensitive areas attracting attention is the goalkeeper position. As preparations for the upcoming season get underway, newly appointed coach Hansi Flick has begun a thorough evaluation of the squad.
Early indications suggest that some bold and potentially controversial decisions are being made behind closed doors — decisions that could mark the end of an era for one of the club’s long-standing figures.
According to reports from the Spanish publication El Nacional, Marc-André ter Stegen, who has been a key part of Barcelona’s setup for several years, might be on his way out. Coach Hansi Flick is expected to meet personally with the German international soon to inform him that he no longer features in the manager’s plans for the next campaign.
While this decision is undoubtedly difficult, it appears to be the result of careful consideration. It reflects both the club’s ambition to rejuvenate critical positions within the team and Flick’s desire to launch a new chapter in Barcelona’s goalkeeping history.
A successor has reportedly been lined up already, with Espanyol goalkeeper Juan García on the verge of joining the Catalan giants. The official announcement of his signing is anticipated within the week.
Flick sees García as an ideal fit for the club’s medium and long-term goals, praising his sharp reflexes, modern footwork, and fierce competitive attitude. The manager regards him as a vital piece of his fresh project, one that prioritizes youthful energy and a winning mentality.
Beyond sporting reasons, financial factors have influenced this move as well. The deal for García is expected to be worth around €25 million, a figure considered reasonable by Barcelona’s standards. Additionally, his salary will be substantially lower than Ter Stegen’s, who currently ranks among the club’s top earners.
In a bid to maintain openness, Flick intends to be direct with Ter Stegen about the situation, making it clear that he will no longer be Barcelona’s starting goalkeeper. With another experienced shot-stopper like Wojciech Szczęsny also expected to remain in the squad, Ter Stegen’s opportunities would be severely limited.
Nevertheless, the club does not plan to force the German goalkeeper out. Instead, they hope to find a peaceful solution, whether through an agreed contract termination or a free transfer. With Ter Stegen’s contract running until 2028, negotiations are likely. The club atmosphere signals the start of a new era in goal — and now, all eyes are on Ter Stegen’s response.
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