Ter Stegen's Demotion At Barcelona Raises Doubts For Germany's World Cup Squad

Last Updated:July 14, 2025, 19:27 IST

Marc-Andre ter Stegen's demotion at Barcelona under Hansi Flick raises concerns about his status in Germany's national team for the 2026 World Cup.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen at Barcelona (AP)

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s reported demotion at Barcelona has sparked fresh concerns about his status in Germany’s national team just a year before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Spanish and German media, including Sport, Mundo Deportivo, and Kicker, report that new Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has informed the 33-year-old goalkeeper that he will be the third choice next season, behind new signing Joan Garcia and 35-year-old Wojciech Szczesny.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has publicly sought clarification on Ter Stegen’s future, emphasizing that regular playing time is essential for selection. “Rhythm and consistent match practice are inevitable for anyone wanting to be part of the World Cup squad," Nagelsmann stated.

Garcia, 24, joined Barcelona from Espanyol for a reported 25 million euros on a contract running through 2031, while Szczesny has agreed to a two-year extension. Ter Stegen, despite being under contract until 2028, now faces a threat to his role with Germany, according to Xinhua.

Reports suggest that a transfer might be the only way to secure Ter Stegen’s World Cup hopes. Clubs such as Galatasaray, Monaco, and several Premier League teams have reportedly shown interest in the experienced goalkeeper.

Is Marc-Andre ter Stegen Moving On From Barcelona?

Previously, Ter Stegen had insisted he would fight for his place at Barcelona. However, Flick’s position may change his plans. The German keeper had only recently returned to action after a long-term knee injury, reclaiming the starting spot during the UEFA Nations League Finals last month.

Kicker described Barcelona’s approach as a clear signal that the club wants to move on from Ter Stegen, despite his decade of service, 422 appearances, and 19 trophies. Adding to the complexities, the goalkeeper recently separated from his wife but remains committed to staying in Barcelona for personal reasons, as his children live there.

Former Germany international and ex-Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Rene Adler criticised Barcelona’s treatment of Ter Stegen as disrespectful, considering his years of elite performances. Adler advised him to seek a transfer to protect his chances of being Germany’s No. 1 at the World Cup.

According to reports, Ter Stegen is both surprised and disappointed by the decision, though polls in the Spanish media suggest the majority of Barcelona supporters back Flick’s move.

The 2026 tournament represents Ter Stegen’s first chance to start at a major competition after spending much of his international career as the backup to Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer, who withdrew from Germany duty after Euro 2024.

(With inputs from IANS)

Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha...Read More

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha...

Read More

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