Barcelona captain to undergo surgery, explains decision in social media post | OneFootball

After having enjoyed a lot of stability over the last decade or so, the goalkeeping position at FC Barcelona is set to undergo fundamental changes this summer.

The Catalans have already signed Joan Garcia to make him their starter in goal from the very next season, while Wojciech Szczesny also recently renewed his contract and will be the first backup for the Spanish shot-stopper.

Thus, Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s situation is expected to undergo a drastic change, as he would not only lose his status as a starter, but would also not be the first in line to play whenever Hansi Flick decides to rest Garcia.

Ter Stegen decides to undergo surgery

Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images

In such a context, Barcelona were looking to offload the German goalkeeper this summer, and relations between the two parties seem to be quite strained.

However, the Blaugranes’ desire for a departure of their captain is now highly unlikely to be fulfilled, as Fabrizio Romano reports that Ter Stegen has confirmed that he will undergo surgery to get rid of his back problems, and will remain out for around 3 months. Thus, any possibility of his departure this summer is extinguished for now.

The goalkeeper explains his decision

The goalkeeper took to social media to announce this decision, and this announcement was accompanied by a message that went as:

“Dear Culers,

I wear the colors and jersey of FC Barcelona with great pride, whether on or off the pitch, in moments of success and in difficult times. Today is a personally difficult day for me.

Physically and athletically, I feel in very good shape, although unfortunately, I am not free from pain. After intensive discussions with the FC Barcelona medical team and external experts, the quickest and safest way for me to fully recover is through back surgery.

After my last operation on my back, I returned to the pitch after 66 days—almost two months; this time, the doctors believe that about three months will be necessary as a precaution, to avoid any risks.

Emotionally, it hurts a lot not being able to support the team during this time. Fortunately, the rehabilitation is manageable, and the road back is clear.

I will keep you updated on my recovery, and I sincerely want to thank you all, dear Culers, for always being by my side.

Yours,

Marc”.

Beyond the implications of this surgery on his transfer status, there is no doubt that this situation makes things even worse for Ter Stegen, who is already going through a difficult time. Hopefully, he will have a successful surgery to return to full fitness soon, and he and Barcelona will then be able to find a solution to his problem.