Barcelona boss Hansi Flick dropped a bombshell at the first-team training session on Thursday: Marc-Andre ter Stegen is not in his plans for the upcoming season.
Third choice? Flick to drop Ter Stegen behind Garcia & Szczesny
While Flick spoke candidly about the club’s economic pressures, he made no mention of his veteran goalkeeper, signaling a decisive shift.
Flick framed Ter Stegen’s situation within Barcelona’s tough financial landscape. He suggested the German’s departure might be crucial to balancing the books especially after investing in new signings like Joan Garcia (€25 m) and extending Wojciech Szczesny’s contract through 2027.
In response to questions about injured players Marc Bernal, Gerard Martín and Ter Stegen himself, Flick addressed only the youth duo, leaving Ter Stegen conspicuously unmentioned. That silence spoke volumes.
Reports confirm Flick has told Ter Stegen he won’t feature this season, placing him behind Joan Garcia and Szczesny in the pecking order.
Training outside the first-team setup for two days running, Ter Stegen continues to work on his fitness but remains sidelined.
The decision reflects more than just sporting considerations. Barcelona now carry four goalkeepers but aim to trim the squad to 26 for their Asia tour beginning 24 July.
With salary caps tightening, offloading Ter Stegen would help clear a high-wage crunch and free room for Garcia and Szczesny.
Despite the cold shoulder, Ter Stegen remains determined. He has publicly pledged to fight for his place and stays close to his family in Catalonia buying a home nearby and building roots. But Barca’s strategy is clear: a new era between the posts is underway.
