Barcelona once again reigned supreme in La Liga, finishing top of the table with 88 points, four clear of second-placed Real Madrid. The season wasn’t without setbacks, however, with one of the biggest challenges losing goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen due to a ruptured patellar tendon injury. Recently, the German international has been linked with a move away from Barcelona, but he has now spoken out to clarify where he’ll be playing next season.
Marc-André ter Stegen Linked With Barcelona Exit
Ter Stegen Clarifies Future After Exit Rumours
Ter Stegen was sidelined for most of the year because of a serious injury, involving the “complete rupture in the patella tendon.” Wojciech Szczesny came out of retirement to deputise for the injured German international and became the club’s number one. Ter Stegen’s return came in a 2-1 away win against Real Valladolid.
The 33-year-old returned to training at the end of March, with the hope of reclaiming his number-one jersey. Hansi Flick, the Barcelona manager said at the time of Stegen’s return: “Marc is on the right track, training fantastically, he’s at a good level and I don’t plan to change anything,” Flick said.
“Marc will play against Valladolid and I don’t know if I’ll make any more changes.
“Everyone who is fit will travel to Valladolid. We need all the positive energy we can get. I’ve seen that in training.”
Goalkeeper Attracts Interest
The German international has reportedly attracted interest from Al-Hilal, but Fabrizio Romano and other media outlets report that Ter Stegen has clarified that he will not be leaving Barcelona: “I know I will be at Barcelona next year,” said the 33-year-old.
According to Mundo Deportivo, manager Hansi Flick has already decided on the future of Ter Stegen. If Joan Garcia signs from Espanyol, the veteran goalkeeper may have to leave in search of regular football. While it remains to be seen where Ter Stegen will start next season, the player himself has made it clear his future lies with the La Liga champions.
