Marc-André Ter Stegen has surprised Barcelona's board with a firm and straightforward stance. The German goalkeeper, one of the first team's captains, hasn't hesitated to raise his voice in the face of a situation he considers unfair. According to internal sources, the goalkeeper has openly said: "If you don't want me, you have to pay me the €42 million you owe me."
This statement echoes strongly in the offices at Camp Nou and makes clear his determination to keep wearing the blaugrana jersey. Marc has been clear with the Catalan club and intends to try to fulfill his contract to the letter. This episode comes right in the middle of a delicate period for the entity presided over by Joan Laporta.
Barcelona are working against the clock to close several deals, including the imminent signing of goalkeeper Joan García from RCD Espanyol. The sporting management is looking to strengthen the goalkeeping position, something that has caused discontent for Ter Stegen. The German has already told the club that he isn't willing to passively accept a change in his role within the team.
Joan García will play for Barça
Joan García's signing hasn't gone unnoticed by anyone; the young Catalan goalkeeper is seen as a bet for both the present and the future. His arrival can be interpreted as a move that casts doubt on the German's continuity. However, far from being intimidated, Ter Stegen has made it clear that he doesn't intend to leave the club easily.
He is determined to put up a fight and prove that he is still number one between the posts at Barça. Those close to the footballer assure that there is no intention to leave. On the contrary, Ter Stegen wants to stay and compete, and if the club has other plans, they will have to fulfill their contractual obligations. The goalkeeper is claiming a total of €42 million ($42 million), corresponding to deferred salaries over recent seasons, agreed upon during the pandemic era, and he now demands to be paid.
Official signing in days
This demand further complicates the situation for Joan Laporta and Deco, who already had the mission of reducing the wage bill and complying with Financial Fair Play. The German's high salary, along with his pending amortization, makes his case one of the most delicate in the locker room. In addition, his possible demotion to the bench with the arrival of Joan García could create tension in the locker room and an uncomfortable internal competition.
Meanwhile, Ter Stegen feels capable of remaining Barcelona's starting goalkeeper. Despite some criticism during last season, he is still held in high regard within the locker room and among the fans. He also has the support of Hansi Flick, who already coached him with the German national team and fully trusts his ability.
For now, the German's position is clear: he doesn't want to leave, but if he's forced out, Barça will have to face a massive payment that would further compromise its already precarious finances. This is a critical situation that forces the club to make quick and firm decisions. Joan García will arrive in the coming hours, but the battle for the goal is hotter than ever.