Marc-André ter Stegen's cycle at FC Barcelona seems to be coming to an end after a historic decade. The German, who arrived in 2014 to replace Víctor Valdés, did so carrying a backpack full of pressure and high expectations. From day one, he showed that he had quality, reflexes, and character to succeed.
His debut in goal was somewhat unusual, alternating competitions with Claudio Bravo during that first season. However, his role in the Champions League and the Copa was decisive in winning the historic treble. From then on, Ter Stegen demanded to be the undisputed starter and the club bet everything on him.
Ter Stegen in a match with Barça | @FCBarcelona_es
A glorious era reaches its final chapter
For years, the German was undisputed between the posts and a reference in every important Barça match. His game-saving stops, security in the air, and good distribution with his feet defined an era. But dynamics change and the club now looks ahead with a new plan in mind.
Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick have drawn up a roadmap focused on rejuvenating key positions. The goal is one of the areas targeted to start that structural renewal. Joan García, a young national goalkeeper, is ready to take on the starting role as early as this season.
Barça must be patient with Joan García | @__joangarcia
With the transition underway, Ter Stegen understands that his prominence in the Barça project has ended. For months, clubs from Saudi Arabia have closely followed his situation with tempting offers on the table. The figures are astronomical and place him among the highest paid in the world.
However, on a sporting level, that possibility doesn't quite convince him. The German believes he can still compete at the highest level in Europe and is looking for a demanding destination. That's where an unexpected but tremendously attractive option has emerged: Manchester City.
Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
Guardiola picks up the phone: ter Stegen enters the equation
Pep Guardiola has conveyed to the English club his desire to bring in an experienced goalkeeper with immediate authority. Stefan Ortega's departure has left a significant gap in City's rotation. Ederson needs real competition and Ter Stegen would be a top-level addition to fill that role.
For the Catalan coach, Barça's goalkeeper fits perfectly into his play style. He has clean distribution with his feet, leadership in the locker room, and a proven track record in Europe. The operation isn't simple, but at the Etihad they're willing to move quickly.
Marc André Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
The goalkeeper, meanwhile, views this possibility favorably as it would allow him to keep playing in the European elite. He knows he still has years of great performance ahead and wants to play in the Champions League every season. City's project motivates him, both because of the team's level and because of Guardiola's presence.
At Barça, they assume that the era is coming to a close and won't put up too many obstacles. The arrival of Joan García and the need to reduce the wage bill accelerate the process. Now everything depends on the goalkeeper's final decision, which will be made in the coming days.
Ter Stegen | @mterstegen1
The end of an era, with his head held high
Thus, Ter Stegen is preparing to bring to a close a story full of titles, magical nights, and loyalty. He's leaving as one of the most important goalkeepers in the club's recent history. He's doing so with the desire to keep competing at the highest level in another top league.
If nothing goes wrong, his new destination will be Manchester City, which is already finalizing the last details for his signing. A change that would mark another chapter in the career of a footballer who has never stopped looking ahead. In Barcelona, his legacy is already assured.
