Marc-André ter Stegen, one of FC Barcelona's symbols over the past decade, has decided to take a different path. After a meeting with Deco, the German goalkeeper has realized that he isn't part of Hansi Flick's plans. The coach has made it clear that he's committed to a generational change between the posts.
The decision has surprised the culé environment, but not inside the locker room, where this outcome was already expected. The relationship between Flick and the goalkeeper has never been smooth since his arrival at Can Barça. The new manager prioritizes youth, agility, and total commitment to the model he intends to implement.
Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
Flick doesn't count on him even as a backup
The German coach has already told him that he'll be the third-choice goalkeeper if he decides to stay with the team.
The former Borussia Mönchengladbach player hasn't taken the news well. His ambition to play in the next World Cup with Germany forces him to make drastic decisions. At Barça, he won't get any minutes even as the second-choice goalkeeper, which distances him from the national team.
At 33 years old, Ter Stegen is still an elite goalkeeper and his market value remains high. Although his performance dropped last season, he still has a reputation in international soccer. That's why he's already considering two serious offers to continue his career away from Camp Nou.
Marc André Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
Galatasaray and Manchester United have contacted his camp to finalize a deal as soon as possible.
In Türkiye, Galatasaray has put an ambitious proposal on the table. The Ottoman club is looking for a replacement for Fernando Muslera and has chosen the German as its favorite. The sporting challenge and the chance to play in the Champions League could convince the goalkeeper.
From England, Manchester United have also shown interest. Amorim, the team's new coach, doesn't count on André Onana and has requested a reliable replacement. Ter Stegen's experience and reliability fit the profile sought by the Red Devils.
Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
Free exit but with conditions
Barça won't demand a transfer fee, only that he doesn't strengthen a direct La Liga rival.
FC Barcelona has decided to make his departure easier. They know his salary is one of the highest on the squad. Freeing themselves from that cost would allow them to register other signings like Joan Garcia without issues with financial fair play.
No fee will be requested for his departure, but there will be one condition. The club doesn't want him to strengthen any direct rival within La Liga. Fortunately, neither Real Madrid nor Atlético are interested in him, which simplifies the operation.
Ter Stegen in a match with Barça | @FCBarcelona_es
The president has thanked the German for his years of service and doesn't want a contentious exit.
Joan Laporta believes that Ter Stegen's cycle has come to an end. He appreciates his professionalism, his leadership, and his role during the club's most challenging years. However, he thinks Barça needs fresh air in goal.
Both parties are willing to negotiate an amicable contract termination. If an agreement is reached, the German could receive the remaining salary for the year and leave as a free agent. Everything will depend on how quickly talks with interested clubs are formalized.
Ter Stegen | @mterstegen1
A glorious era comes to an end
Ter Stegen leaves after 11 years at the club, where he won titles and became a fan idol.
The German arrived in 2014 and quickly earned a place in the hearts of the culé fans. His impossible saves, his footwork, and his competitive character defined an era. Now, he closes a glorious chapter to seek new challenges in the final stretch of his career.
His departure leaves an emotional void, but it also opens the door to the future. Joan García and other talents will now have the opportunity to grow. Ter Stegen leaves quietly, but with everyone's recognition.
