Barcelona have made a firm decision regarding the future of long-serving goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, and while the situation has stirred speculation, the club has no intention of taking extreme steps such as completely excluding the German from their matchday squads.
Despite his years of service and past heroics, Ter Stegen is no longer viewed as untouchable in the current squad hierarchy. The German international has been directly informed that he will not be guaranteed the starting position in the coming season. In fact, club sources have clarified that he will not be given preference over other goalkeeping options — namely Joan García and Wojciech Szczęsny.
It’s a significant shift from the past, when Ter Stegen was a mainstay in the lineup and often regarded as one of the best keepers in Europe. Now, Barcelona’s new technical direction — driven by head coach Hansi Flick and the sporting leadership — is focused on evolution and performance over sentimentality. No player, not even a senior figure like Ter Stegen, is immune from competition.
Even so, the Catalan giants do not intend to ostracize the player or force an exit through drastic means. Unlike other clubs that have sidelined big names to push them toward the exit, Barcelona want to maintain a respectful and professional relationship with the German goalkeeper. He will be allowed to compete for his place, train with the team, and remain part of the matchday squads — unless a better alternative is clearly established.
The writing, however, is on the wall. Barcelona have brought in Joan García from Espanyol, a highly-rated young Spanish goalkeeper who has impressed scouts with his reflexes, distribution, and calm demeanor under pressure. García is not coming in just to sit on the bench — he’s been told he will be in contention to start games.
In addition, talks with Wojciech Szczęsny are ongoing, and the Polish international is seriously being considered for a leadership role between the sticks. His experience at Juventus and with the Polish national team makes him a reliable short-term solution while García continues to develop. Barcelona’s coaching staff believe Szczęsny can offer stability and composure in high-pressure matches.
Ter Stegen, on the other hand, is determined to stay and fight for his position. Despite the clear message from the club, the 32-year-old has no intention of leaving this summer. He believes he still has much to offer and is confident in his ability to reclaim his starting role. His camp sees this as a challenge, not a dismissal, and have so far rejected overtures from potential suitors in Germany and the Premier League.
The German’s contract runs until 2028, and given his salary and age, a transfer would be complicated unless a club is willing to offer a sizeable package. Barcelona, aware of the financial reality, are not actively pushing him out, but they will not block a departure either if an offer comes in that suits all parties.
Internally, there is a growing feeling that Ter Stegen’s time as the undisputed number one is coming to an end. Injuries in recent seasons, coupled with occasional dips in form, have raised concerns. Moreover, the club’s pressing need to refresh the squad and inject new energy into key positions has accelerated the search for alternatives.
The decision also aligns with Hansi Flick’s vision of a more proactive and modern goalkeeper. While Ter Stegen has excelled in shot-stopping and distribution, there is a belief within the technical staff that García and Szczęsny may offer different qualities better suited to the tactical shift Barcelona plan to implement.
Fans have been divided in their reaction. Some supporters remain fiercely loyal to Ter Stegen, citing his loyalty, consistency, and big-match performances over the years. Others agree that a fresh approach is needed and have welcomed the idea of increased competition in goal, something that has been missing in recent seasons.
Meanwhile, Ter Stegen continues to train with full commitment, maintaining a professional attitude despite the awkward circumstances. Sources close to the dressing room say the German has not allowed the situation to affect his demeanor or influence the atmosphere within the squad.
Barcelona’s management is treading carefully. They understand the importance of maintaining harmony and avoiding unnecessary tension in what is expected to be a transitional season. Flick’s approach so far has been direct but respectful — giving clarity without closing doors.
What happens next will depend largely on pre-season performances and whether an external club submits an offer serious enough to tempt both player and club. If that doesn’t happen, Ter Stegen will remain in the squad, but with his new role clearly defined — as just another option, no longer the automatic choice.
In many ways, this moment marks the end of an era. Ter Stegen, once the unchallenged figure in Barcelona’s last line of defense, now finds himself entering a period of uncertainty. Whether he stays and fights or seeks a fresh start elsewhere, the months ahead will be defining.
For now, Barcelona have drawn the line: no drastic measures, no forced exit — but also, no preferential treatment. The goalkeeper who once saved seasons must now save his own career at Camp Nou