DFB goalkeeper wants to go to the World Cup
Ter Stegen probably before moving to relegation candidates
12/29/2025 – 11:56 a.mReading time: 1 min.
The national goalkeeper urgently needs match practice for his World Cup dream. That’s why his departure from Barcelona is becoming increasingly likely.
Marc-André ter Stegen is apparently about to say goodbye to FC Barcelona. According to consistent reports in the Spanish media, the German national goalkeeper is set to move to relegation-threatened FC Girona – initially on loan until the end of the season.
The 33-year-old no longer plays a role at the Spanish champions under coach Hansi Flick. Barça relies on the young Joan García in goal. For ter Stegen, a change is of great importance with a view to the World Cup in the summer. In order to be recommended for a place in the DFB team, he urgently needs playing time.
National coach Julian Nagelsmann recently emphasized this: “It’s important that he plays.” It is not important “whether this is at a top European club”. However, it is important “that he still plays reasonably well”.
Ter Stegen could gain match practice in Girona – and be challenged. After 17 matchdays, the club has conceded 33 goals, more than any other team in the league. Girona is also only around 100 kilometers north of Barcelona. The keeper, who lives apart, would thus remain close to his two sons.
Ter Stegen’s contract with Barça runs until 2028. After his back operation, he was between the posts in the cup game against third division club CD Guadalajara (2-0) in December. “It was a good opportunity for him, he gave a lot to the club. We spoke to the coaching staff and decided that he would play. Just for this game,” said Flick afterwards.