FC Barcelona are going through a difficult moment in their goalkeeping duties due to the serious injury suffered by Ter Stegen during the match against Villarreal. This injury hasn't only forced the club to change its immediate plans, but has also caused serious doubts about the German goalkeeper's performance in 2025. To temporarily solve this problem, Deco and Laporta signed Szczęsny, but the Pole has still not made his debut and Iñaki Peña is settling into Flick's starting eleven.
The situation is further complicated when one considers the extent of Ter Stegen's injury. The uncertainty surrounding his recovery leaves the German's ability to perform at his usual level once he recovers hanging in the air. This has led to names such as Diogo Costa and Chevalier being linked to the club as possible options to reinforce the goal in 2025.
However, in a recent interview, Deco , Barça's sporting director, has given the definitive answer as to who will be the club's starting goalkeeper for next season. He has put an end to the debate in one fell swoop by pointing out who will be chosen and now all that remains is to wait.
Neither Diogo Costa nor Chevalier: Barça Announces Its Starting Goalkeeper for 2025
According to Deco, Barça are not planning to sign a new goalkeeper, as they still have full confidence in Ter Stegen. "Ter Stegen still has three years left on his contract, he is young for a goalkeeper, 32 years old, and we must focus on him recovering well and coming back in good shape," said the sporting director.
Deco added that the priority is to ensure that Ter Stegen returns in optimal condition, without the pressure of having to find an immediate replacement. "We are analyzing it little by little, I don't think it's something we have to consider now," he concluded.
But the highlight was when Deco closed the door on Diogo Costa's arrival, explaining that "he won't come in because we have Ter Stegen." According to him, Barça have no intention of transfer another goalkeeper, as they trust in the German's recovery.
"If I were Diogo, I don't know if I would come to FC Barcelona to be a substitute," he added, making it clear that Ter Stegen is the future of the Barça goal once he is recovered. With this statement, Deco has confirmed that, if nothing goes wrong, Ter Stegen will be Barça's starting goalkeeper for the 2025 season , consolidating his position in the long term.