La Liga icon warns Barcelona of goalkeeping crisis amid Ter Stegen situation – ‘There won’t be a happy ending’ | OneFootball

Legendary Spanish goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has weighed in on the tense situation currently brewing at Barcelona involving their captain and long-time first-choice goalkeeper, Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

The former Valencia shot-stopper, known for his straightforward opinion, did not hold back as he assessed the complex scenario facing the La Liga champions.

The problem began when new manager Hansi Flick informed Ter Stegen that he no longer plans to rely on him as the starting goalkeeper.

Canizares’ take

Despite having a contract until 2028, the German has made it clear that he has no intention of leaving Barcelona this summer. According to Canizares, this situation is a recipe for internal conflict.

“There won’t be a happy ending here because the situation is far from ideal,” Canizares explained. “You had a starting goalkeeper, Ter Stegen, with a long contract based on years of solid performances.

“But now you’ve decided to move on by bringing in a cheaper option, Joan García, even though you paid for him.

Barcelona are under mounting pressure. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“The problem is, you need Ter Stegen to want to leave, and you need a club that is willing to take on his wages. That’s not easy as there are too few top clubs and too many goalkeepers,” he explained.

Pressure mounting on Barcelona

Canizares also pointed out the pressure this situation will place on Joan Garcia. The Spanish goalkeeper will be stepping into a high-pressure role with Ter Stegen still in the dressing room, watching closely.

“Joan will have to play knowing that Ter Stegen is behind him, and that’s not easy. Ter Stegen is not a simple character to manage.

“On top of that, if Joan makes mistakes, the media will stir up debates, and that’s the worst thing for a goalkeeper,” Canizares warned.

Barcelona seem to be preparing for life after Ter Stegen, even if the player himself is not ready to step aside. From the club’s perspective, it looks like a transitional phase is already underway.

But with Ter Stegen digging in his heels and planning to honour the remaining three years of his contract, the coming months are likely to be challenging for everyone involved.

Source: SPORT