Barça's goal has become one of the most complex focal points of the new sports project. In just twelve months, three different names have occupied the net. Ter Stegen, Iñaki Peña, and Szczesny have alternated without a clear line.
Everything began when Ter Stegen got injured halfway through the season. At that moment, Hansi Flick decided to go for an external solution. He contacted Szczesny directly, who accepted the challenge and signed until the end of the campaign.
Joan García arrives at Barça as starter for next season
The campaign ended, but calm didn't reach the goal. Now, Barça has made official the signing of Joan García, former Espanyol player. The young Catalan goalkeeper will be the new starter for next season, according to internal sources.
This has left Ter Stegen in an uncomfortable position, as he hoped to regain his spot and saw the 2025/26 season as his great comeback. However, the announcement of Joan García has completely changed the outlook for him.
Ter Stegen's anger came from much earlier
Despite the speculation, Ter Stegen's anger isn't only due to the signing of Joan García. The goalkeeper was already showing discomfort since the end of La Liga. Everything was triggered during the last match against Athletic Club.
Flick surprised everyone by starting Iñaki Peña in San Mamés. That decision wasn't understood by Ter Stegen, who expected to be under the posts. What hurt the German the most wasn't the sporting aspect.
A Flick decision deprived Ter Stegen of an important bonus
According to several media outlets, Ter Stegen had a clause for matches played. If he participated in that last match, he would receive a significant bonus. By not playing, he lost that amount and that fueled his anger with Flick.
For the goalkeeper, it was a lack of respect that marked a turning point. From that day, his relationship with the German coach was deeply affected. That was long before Joan García's name became known.
Ter Stegen's future, further and further from Barça
Joan García's arrival has only worsened the internal situation. Flick wants a profile with better ball distribution and more freshness. Ter Stegen, although experienced, no longer fits that vision for the future.
Barça's financial situation also influences his possible departure. The German has a high salary and several years left on his contract. A sale could free up space and money for new signings.
Flick wants to close the goalkeeper position before preseason starts
The sports management is working discreetly to solve the issue as soon as possible. Flick doesn't want an open case when preparations begin. The goalkeeper position must be settled, and that means making important decisions in the coming weeks.
Joan García starts as the first-choice and has the full trust of the coaching staff. Meanwhile, Ter Stegen is studying offers and doesn't rule out a change of scenery. The summer will be long, but at Camp Nou a total change under the posts is already looming.