Ter Stegen Could Leave Barcelona Amid Playing Time Concerns and 2026 World Cup Dream
Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is reportedly contemplating a potential exit from the club if he cannot be guaranteed regular playing time next season. The German international remains determined to become Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and consistent minutes at the club level are seen as crucial to achieving that goal.
According to sources (Diario AS) close to the situation, Barcelona have already begun reassessing Ter Stegen’s role following a notable dip in form and a series of knee tendon surgeries in recent years. While the 32-year-old has been a key figure at the club for nearly a decade, the management is said to be evaluating options as they plan for the future.
There is serious interest in Ter Stegen from several European clubs as well as teams in Saudi Arabia, who are reportedly ready to offer lucrative contracts. A departure is not imminent, but the situation could escalate if clear assurances regarding his status as a starter are not provided in the coming weeks.
Barcelona are expected to make a final decision after internal discussions with the coaching staff and medical team.
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Ter Stegen’s recent years have been marred by physical setbacks, including three surgeries on his right knee since 2021. The latest injury, a torn patellar tendon sustained in September 2024 during a match against Villarreal, sidelined him for over seven months . Despite a valiant comeback in May 2025—helping Barça secure a critical 2-1 win over Real Valladolid—questions linger about his durability and form. Barcelona’s management has grown skeptical of his ability to maintain peak performance, with reports highlighting a “dip in form” post-recovery .
The Catalans are actively pursuing Espanyol’s 22-year-old goalkeeper Joan García, seen as a long-term successor to ter Stegen. García’s €25 million release clause and modern skill set align with coach Hansi Flick’s vision, creating a potential rivalry for the starting role. Sporting director Deco has openly discussed restructuring the goalkeeping department, hinting at a “new No.1 for the future” . Current backup Wojciech Szczęsny, who impressed during ter Stegen’s absence, remains undecided on renewing his contract, further complicating the hierarchy .
Ter Stegen’s primary objective is securing Germany’s starting spot at the 2026 World Cup, a position left vacant by Manuel Neuer’s international retirement. National team coach Julian Nagelsmann has affirmed ter Stegen as his “number one,” but emphasized the need for consistent club minutes to retain that status . With younger contenders like Stuttgart’s Alexander Nübel rising, ter Stegen cannot afford reduced playing time. Barcelona’s pursuit of García—and the prospect of rotation—could force his exit to ensure World Cup readiness .
Amid the uncertainty, ter Stegen has attracted serious interest from Saudi Pro League clubs and European giants. While he reportedly prefers to stay at Barça, lucrative offers from the Middle East and competitive bids from top-tier European teams may tempt him if his role diminishes. Barcelona’s financial constraints also make a sale appealing, as ter Stegen’s high wages clash with their cost-cutting measures .
Ter Stegen’s contract runs until 2028, but loyalty may yield to pragmatism. His agent is expected to seek guarantees from Barça about his starting role, especially with García’s arrival looming. If assurances aren’t provided, a summer transfer could materialize. For now, ter Stegen remains focused on Barcelona’s La Liga title chase and Champions League ambitions, but the clock is ticking on a decision that could define his legacy .
The coming weeks will prove pivotal for ter Stegen, Barcelona, and Germany. As the club balances future planning with immediate success, the goalkeeper’s resolve to prioritize his World Cup aspirations may ultimately dictate his fate. One thing is clear: ter Stegen’s journey is far from over, but its next chapter hinges on trust, fitness, and the relentless pursuit of glory.
