Marc-André ter Stegen is getting closer to returning, and with him, peace of mind for FC Barcelona. The German goalkeeper is injured since late September due to a tear in the patellar tendon of his right knee. Now, he has already taken a very important step: he partially trained with the group.
Good feelings and much caution
Ter Stegen's progress is positive and, in this context, it's pure gold. The footballer is responding well to the exercises and, according to various sources, his feelings are very good.
Even so, no one wants to rush, neither the player nor the coaching staff. He has had problems in that area before and this time caution is prioritized. Returning too soon would be too risky, so, step by step.
Back for LaLiga and the Champions League?
Ter Stegen's return is not only good news for LaLiga. It can also be key for the UEFA Champions League. In fact, if all goes well, he could be available for the last five rounds of the domestic championship.
Here comes the big question: can he also play in Europe? The Champions League semifinals will be held on April 29 (first leg) and May 6 (second leg). The final, on May 31. If Barça gets there and Ter Stegen is in shape, he can be decisive.
This is where the specific date everyone wanted comes in: his return is aimed at the end of April. This is pointed out by "Mundo Deportivo." Although there is still no official confirmation, the club is working with that goal in mind.
The dilemma in the Champions League
However, there is a problem. When Ter Stegen was injured, Barça registered Wojciech Szczęsny in his place. The Polish goalkeeper has more than fulfilled, even debuting in the Champions League against Benfica and has proven to be up to the task.
UEFA regulations allow the original goalkeeper to be re-registered if he recovers, as long as the organization is informed 24 hours before the match. But only one of the two can be on the list. That is, for Ter Stegen to play, Szczęsny must be removed from the list.
A complicated decision for Hansi Flick. Should he bet on his always starting goalkeeper or continue trusting the one who has maintained the level in his absence?