Julian Nagelsmann on Marc-André ter Stegen’s Future
Julian Nagelsmann, the head coach of the German national football team, has emphasized that in order for Marc-André ter Stegen to retain his status as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper, he must resume his position as the starting goalie for FC Barcelona following his recent back surgery. The 33-year-old goalkeeper underwent a successful procedure this week, yet faces a competitive scenario at Barcelona after the club acquired Joan García from Espanyol last month.
“If he is fit and holds the first-choice position at his club, he will undoubtedly be our starting goalkeeper because he has earned that right,”
Nagelsmann stated in an interview with Sky Germany.
He also noted, however, that ter Stegen must meet certain conditions, just as any other player.
Recovery Timeline and Future Prospects
Barcelona has not disclosed the exact duration of ter Stegen’s recovery; Spanish media suggest that the club will inform LaLiga’s medical committee that he will be sidelined for up to four months. Under LaLiga regulations, if a player is injured for this length of time, the club could alleviate about half of his salary for registration matters. Despite this, ter Stegen indicated prior to his surgery that doctors estimated a recovery period of around three months. Nagelsmann remains optimistic, believing ter Stegen will be back on the field by December.
The national coach expressed confidence that ter Stegen would participate in Germany’s matches scheduled for March and June, with his sights set on the upcoming World Cup.
Challenges and Competition
Ter Stegen’s past year has been tumultuous; he missed 66 days earlier this season due to another back surgery and dealt with a knee injury that limited his play last season, prompting Barcelona to sign Wojciech Szczesny as extra cover. Szczesny, who came out of retirement, has since extended his contract with the club for two more years. Although reports surfaced suggesting Barcelona was open to ter Stegen’s departure following García’s acquisition, he has shown a strong desire to remain and compete for the starting position.
Remarkably, ter Stegen has been a key player for FC Barcelona since joining from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014, solidifying his place as their primary goalkeeper since 2016.
Other News from Barcelona
In other news, Barcelona defender Jules Koundé has agreed to a new five-year deal, while the club finalized a shirt sponsorship agreement with the Congo DR. Additionally, former Barcelona player Carles Pérez was recently hospitalized due to a dog bite in a sensitive area.
