With German tactician Hansi Flick continuing as head coach of Barcelona, a fresh chapter seems to be unfolding at Camp Nou. Renowned for his tactical discipline and well-balanced attacking style, Flick is determined not to settle for the current state of affairs.
Instead, he is actively pursuing significant adjustments to the team’s starting eleven to better reflect his footballing philosophy and ambitions to compete strongly on all fronts next season.
Flick has undertaken a thorough evaluation of his squad, closely analyzing player performances while rethinking certain key positions. As part of his long-term project, it’s expected that some familiar faces could be shown the exit door, making way for new players who align more closely with his tactical demands and future plans.
Among the notable changes on the horizon is Flick’s decision to sideline his fellow countryman, André ter Stegen. Reports from the Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reveal that the Barcelona manager, in collaboration with the club’s leadership, has made plans for Ter Stegen to lose his starting role next season.
Instead, Espanyol’s anticipated signing, Juan Garcia, is set to take over as the team’s primary goalkeeper. Sources close to Flick suggest that it will be difficult for Ter Stegen to regain his starting position, signaling a possible end to his long tenure with the club.
This move is believed to be part of Barcelona’s broader effort to rejuvenate and reshape their squad, a strategy that’s been in motion since Joan Laporta returned as club president. Over the past couple of years, several iconic figures have left Camp Nou, including Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Gerard Piqué, Sergio Busquets, and Sergi Roberto.
With Ter Stegen currently the only remaining player from the side that suffered the humiliating 8-2 defeat against Bayern Munich in the 2020 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, his possible departure would mark the closing of yet another chapter in the club’s history.
For Ter Stegen, this situation presents a difficult crossroads. Eager to secure the starting goalkeeper spot for Germany at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he may now need to seek opportunities elsewhere to maintain regular playing time.
It’s worth noting that the German international remains under contract with Barcelona until the summer of 2028, leaving both club and player with crucial decisions to make in the coming months.
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