Marc-André ter Stegen's situation at FC Barcelona isn't going through its best moment. The German goalkeeper, who was key in winning titles in previous years, hasn't managed to convince in his return after the injury. Although the culé coaching staff publicly support him, the truth is that his current performance has raised doubts both in the locker room and in the club's offices.
After several months out due to physical problems, Ter Stegen has returned as the starter, but his performances aren't at the level he used to show. Far from providing the security that made him one of the best goalkeepers in the world, he's now making mistakes unworthy of his category. Barça have conceded avoidable goals and his influence between the posts has been reduced.
This situation has set off some internal alarms. According to sources close to the club, there are executives and members of the sporting department who don't rule out a change in goal in the medium term. The debate about his continuity is starting to gain momentum and, although no decisions have been made, the scenario is more open than ever.
They value his history
Barça value Ter Stegen's historical significance and recognize his commitment to the institution. However, the club's sporting planning can't afford to keep players who aren't performing at their best, especially in such a delicate economic context. The sporting management is keeping an eye on the market and they don't rule out exploring options if the situation doesn't improve.
Meanwhile, Ter Stegen himself doesn't feel completely comfortable. The goalkeeper has noticed that his leadership is no longer unquestionable. Part of the blaugrana environment points to him as one of those responsible for the team's defensive slump. These feelings have led the German to start considering his future away from Barcelona.
Premier League watching his future
With a contract until 2028 and a high salary, his departure wouldn't be easy. However, in the Premier League there are several clubs interested and they could take on an operation of that magnitude. If Barça needed to generate significant income this summer, the German goalkeeper's name would once again be on the table as a possible strategic sale.
The club, for now, hasn't made any official statement. There is respect for Ter Stegen in the locker room, but there are also voices who believe his time could be coming to an end. The arrival of a new coach, with new ideas and possibly a different hierarchy, could be decisive in the German's future.
Ter Stegen arrived in 2014 and has been part of the club's recent history. But in the new project Barça are preparing, no one has a guaranteed spot. The debate is open and his continuity is no longer as clear as before.