Amid the major transformations taking place at Barcelona, attention is turning to a sensitive position within the team: the goalkeeper. As preparations for next season begin, coach Hansi Flick is conducting a comprehensive review of the squad, and it appears that bold decisions are being made behind the scenes—decisions that could bring an end to the career of one of the team’s pillars over the past few years.
According to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Marc-André ter Stegen’s time at Barcelona may be coming to an end. Coach Hansi Flick plans to meet with the German goalkeeper in the coming days to personally inform him that he is no longer part of his plans for next season.
Related topics
Although the decision is not an easy one, it has been carefully considered and reflects the club’s clear intention to refresh certain key positions, as well as the coach’s desire to begin a new era between the posts.
A replacement has already been identified, with Barcelona expected to officially announce the signing of Espanyol goalkeeper Juan García this week. Flick views García as a strategic option for the medium and long term, citing his quick reflexes, strong footwork, and competitive mentality. The German manager also considers him a core part of his new project, which emphasizes youth and a winning mindset.
García’s signing is driven not only by sporting considerations but also by financial ones.
The deal is valued at approximately €25 million—a relatively manageable sum—while García’s salary will be significantly lower than that of Ter Stegen, who is among the highest-paid players at the club.
Flick aims to be transparent from the start, explicitly informing Ter Stegen that he will no longer be the first-choice goalkeeper, with García set to take over the role. The presence of Szczęsny in the squad will further limit his opportunities.
However, Barcelona does not intend to push Ter Stegen out forcibly, preferring instead to reach an amicable resolution—either through mutual contract termination or by facilitating a free transfer. The German goalkeeper’s contract runs until 2028, allowing room for negotiations.
The atmosphere around the team suggests that a new era is indeed beginning in the goalkeeping department—one that could conclude with Ter Stegen’s departure if no agreement is reached. The decision has been made, the message has been delivered… and now, all eyes are on the veteran goalkeeper’s response.
