One of the most urgent issues Barça needs to solve these days is the future of Marc-André ter Stegen. The German goalkeeper, who has been a pillar of the team over the past seasons, is on his way out. The club believes the time has come to close his cycle, especially after the arrival of Joan García.
The signing of Joan García is not just a bet on the future, but a strategic decision. Hansi Flick and the sporting management believe it's time to renew the goalkeeping position with a younger profile. That's why the club wants Ter Stegen to find a way out as soon as possible, ideally before the start of the preseason tour.
A tense start to preseason
The preseason hasn't started in the best way in this regard. Ter Stegen has trained separately from the group in the first days, a clear sign of his discomfort with the situation. The German goalkeeper is upset about how the timing and the manner have been handled.
This decision to partially separate himself from the group is seen as a way to show his disagreement, and within the team it's interpreted as a situation that needs to be solved. Flick, who respects Ter Stegen's career, is also aware that he can't allow internal tensions to affect the group.
A key economic issue
Beyond the sporting aspect, Ter Stegen's departure is considered an essential economic issue. His salary is one of the highest in the squad, and his exit would free up a significant part of the salary cap. This would not only make it easier to register Joan García as a starter, but also to register signings the club is working on, such as Rashford.
Barça knows every euro counts in this market. Freeing up Ter Stegen's salary not only eases the accounts, but allows for more flexibility in ongoing negotiations. That's why they're seeking an amicable exit, although it won't be easy if the player keeps his current stance.
Bad atmosphere with Joan García
Another factor pushing Barça to close this chapter as soon as possible is the bad atmosphere that's developed in the locker room. Joan García's arrival hasn't been well received by Ter Stegen, who feels sidelined and betrayed.
Hansi Flick, who values group harmony as an essential pillar, doesn't want the situation to drag on. That's why the sporting management is working to find a quick exit for Ter Stegen, avoiding the conflict with Joan García ending up contaminating the locker room.