Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that Marc-André ter Stegen is close to receiving full medical clearance to return to the squad after the club’s recent 5-3 victory against Real Betis, speaking at a press conference, as reported by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account.
He said:
Hansi Flick: Ter Stegen can receive the medical green light tomorrow. I’m happy to have him back. Joan Garcia will continue being the starting goalkeeper.
Flick explained that Ter Stegen is finally fit again after months on the sidelines, a huge boost for Barcelona as they continue a demanding season. Flick’s words show relief and satisfaction at having one of his most senior players available again.
Ter Stegen’s return also strengthens squad depth, especially with important domestic and European fixtures approaching.
Ter Stegen has been sidelined since July after undergoing back surgery, a setback that kept him away from the pitch for several months.
His return to full training has been steady but careful, and while his fitness is no longer a major concern, his place in the starting lineup is another matter entirely. Flick’s stance leaves little room for doubt, and it changes the dynamic inside the goalkeeping department in a big way.
Joan García has taken full advantage of his opportunity this season. With a series of composed performances and key saves, the young shot-stopper has earned Flick’s trust. His consistency has brought stability to Barcelona’s defense.
Wojciech Szczesny remains the experienced backup option, meaning Ter Stegen is expected to return as third choice, at least in the short term.
For Ter Stegen, now 33, the situation is uncomfortable. He is desperate for regular minutes. Softfootball understands that Ter Stegen has also been linked with a move to Turkey, especially with Germany’s plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting to take shape.
Sitting on the bench, or worse, outside matchday squads, could seriously hurt his chances at the international level. It leaves him in a strange position.
There is also a quiet tension around what comes next. Whether Ter Stegen accepts a reduced role, waits patiently, or looks for a new challenge elsewhere remains to be seen. For now, Flick has drawn his line, and Barcelona’s goalkeeping hierarchy feels settled, even if not everyone is fully at peace with it yet.
