Marc-André ter Stegen surprised everyone this morning by arriving at Barça's Ciutat Esportiva earlier than expected. Although preseason officially starts on July 13, several footballers have decided to return ahead of schedule. The German joined the voluntary training group to prepare for the new season.
Alongside him are Ferran Torres, Marc Bernal, Ronald Araújo, and Joan García. All of them wanted to show commitment from the very first minute. The common goal is to start the season at the highest physical and mental level.
The future of Barça's goal is decided this week
Ter Stegen, after his vacation, returned with excitement and a strong desire to compete. His intention is clear: he wants to convince Flick that he deserves to stay. During the morning training session, he was seen focused and smiling.
The goalkeeper knows that he won't have an easy time reclaiming his spot. The new technical management is looking for fresh air between the posts. Hansi Flick has already started shaping his own decisions since arriving on the bench.
Flick surprises Ter Stegen with his clear bet on Joan García
However, the truth is that the new coach has very different plans. According to internal sources, Flick fully trusts Joan García as the first-choice goalkeeper. The young Catalan talent has been a firm bet from the beginning.
In addition, the German manager has requested Szczesny's continuity. The former Juventus player has renewed his contract until 2027 and will have a prominent role in the locker room. This decision leaves Ter Stegen in a complicated position.
Marc-André ter Stegen's farewell from Barça is closer than ever
In the coming days, a key meeting is scheduled between Flick and Ter Stegen. It will be a sincere face-to-face, with no beating around the bush or false promises. The German coach will inform him that he is not part of his plans.
This is not a punishment or a personal slight. Simply, Hansi Flick has decided to start a new cycle with other profiles. That means leaving behind one of the main figures of the last Barça era.
Ter Stegen, aware of this, is already seriously considering his departure. He wants to keep competing at the highest level and won't settle for a secondary role. Several European clubs have already shown interest in acquiring his services.
Ter Stegen will end his time at Barça after more than ten years of dedication
The German goalkeeper has been a key figure for more than a decade at Camp Nou. His performances saved countless important matches. With him between the posts, Barça experienced great nights of glory.
Every cycle has an end, and this one seems to have arrived. Flick has been clear, direct, and honest with his decision. Now it will be up to Ter Stegen to choose his next destination.
What is clear is that he leaves as a legend. His legacy will remain in the memory of the culés for many years. Barça begins a new era without Ter Stegen between the posts.