Image source: sports.yahoo.com
Marc-Andre ter Stegen has completed a short-term loan move from Barcelona to Girona until the end of the season, ending months of speculation over his future. The goalkeeper said he joined to find regular game-time and keep himself in contention for the German national team ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Ter Stegen also signalled he wants a leadership role at his new club.
Ter Stegen says Girona loan move was ‘quite easy’ after Barcelona spell
Ter Stegen is a Girona player on loan from Barcelona until the end of the season, with the German international seeking consistent minutes. The move follows months of uncertainty around his role at Barca, and the goalkeeper said he is aiming to remain in the picture for Germany selection ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
In his first interview with Girona, ter Stegen said the welcome from team-mates and the manager stood out immediately. “It’s been wonderful, and the way I’ve been welcomed here in the dressing room, along with the manager, is something truly special,” he said. Ter Stegen was one of Barcelona’s four captains despite his limited role, and he said he wants to carry that leadership into Girona’s dressing room.
“I always want to be a leader in the locker room and someone they can trust. I want to help the team, which I believe is the most important thing,” he said. Ter Stegen added that Girona’s culture and tradition helped shape his decision, and pointed to the team’s playing style as a key attraction.
“I chose this club because of the way they play,” ter Stegen said. “If you’re clear about how you want to attack and how you want to defend, things eventually work out, and we’ve seen that in the last three matches.” He said he wants to contribute and “celebrate many victories” and added that when he joins a club it is “to compete at the highest level against everyone and always win.”
Ter Stegen also referenced his earlier spell at Borussia Monchengladbach as evidence he has dealt with different pressures in football. “I’ve experienced very different situations in football, from almost drowning to being at the top of the table,” he said. Ter Stegen credited Girona coach Michel for playing a major role in the move, adding: “The decision to come here was quite easy,” before telling supporters he can sense their excitement and that it makes him happy.
