In search of more consistent playing time before the 2026 World Cup, Marc-André ter Stegen will temporarily leave FC Barcelona to join FC Girona on loan for the balance of the 2025–2026 season. The 33-year-old German goalie has been a vital member of Barcelona since 2014, where he has won many La Liga crowns and a Champions League trophy.
However, his appearances this season have been limited due to recent injuries and the rise of younger players. The club has “decided on a different path for the future,” according to Hansi Flick, the former head coach of Germany and current head coach of Barcelona. He wished Ter Stegen well and called him a “fantastic custodian”, stressing the advantages of the loan for both the player and the team.
According to the agreement, Girona will contribute a lesser portion of Ter Stegen’s salary, while Barcelona will pay the majority. He supposedly can’t play against Barcelona this season due to a clause. The seasoned custodian strengthens Girona’s team as they want to move up the La Liga standings by providing leadership and superior quality.
Barcelona confirm Marc-Andre ter Stegen exit decision
: Ter Stegen will not leave Barcelona next month. For now, he won’t accept an exit from the club.
If he has to choose between leaving to gain minutes and be a starter at the World Cup or fulfilling his contract, he prefers to stay at Barça.
— @santiovalle pic.twitter.com/uVDMZvVRP3
— The Touchline | (@TouchlineX) December 13, 2025
Even when García, one of the world’s top goalkeepers, arrived, Ter Stegen was eager to stay and compete for his spot, but he was sidelined for several months due to a back ailment. The length of his absence was important since, according to La Liga regulations, Barcelona may deduct his pay from their salary ceiling and utilise the remaining funds on other players if he misses more than four months.
The goalie first refused to allow Barcelona to verify his medical tests after claiming on social media that he would only be out for three months. Ter Stegen was then deprived of his leadership by the club until he finally conceded and a four-month absence was confirmed.
Barcelona’s first registration of García was mostly due to Ter Stegen’s injury. Alejandro Balde, a left back, wishes Ter Stegen well as he leaves the team despite the new addition’s excellent performance in Catalonia this season. He declared, “Marc is a huge role model for me.” “I hope he succeeds in this new chapter, and I wish him the best of success. I’m pleased for him.
