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Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen is in the final phase of recovery from his back surgery and is expected to receive medical clearance this week, potentially before Saturday’s La Liga fixture against Osasuna, though he faces an uncertain future with limited playing opportunities under Hansi Flick.
Ter Stegen Yet to Receive Formal Offers Despite January Transfer Speculation
The German goalkeeper will find it difficult to secure playing time upon his return, as manager Hansi Flick has made it clear that Joan Garcia remains his first-choice goalkeeper. This situation leaves Ter Stegen’s future at the club uncertain, particularly if the 32-year-old wishes to earn a place in Germany’s squad for the upcoming World Cup.
According to BILD, a winter transfer for Ter Stegen is not ruled out as it would provide the goalkeeper with an opportunity to gain minutes and match rhythm to arrive at the World Cup in optimal condition. Turkish clubs have shown interest in signing the Barcelona captain, although no formal offers have been made so far ahead of the January transfer window.
Ter Stegen’s personal circumstances play an important role in any decision about his future, as the goalkeeper shares custody of his two children following his separation and lives close to his ex-wife to facilitate family life. A move in January would therefore pose a significant challenge, given that it might require a substantial relocation for him and his family situation.
Barcelona sporting director Deco recently addressed Ter Stegen’s situation, leaving open the possibility that the German could remain as third-choice goalkeeper until the end of the season. Deco stressed that the priority was Ter Stegen’s recovery from back surgery, and only afterwards would the club assess his future at Camp Nou with three weeks remaining before the end of the year.
