Barcelona captain not training with the group for the third day in a row | OneFootball

FC Barcelona squad returned to training this morning for their fourth pre-season session at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.

In this first and only session of the day, Hansi Flick was once again unable to count on Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who continues to train separately in the gym due to ongoing back discomfort, reports SPORT.

Third day in a row

Ter Stegen has not been training with the rest of the squad since the start of pre-season, working within the gym facilities during Monday’s session and the double-session on Tuesday as well.

Earlier today, the German goalkeeper arrived at the club facilities at 08:15. Before entering the Ciutat Esportiva, he briefly stopped his car a few metres before the entrance to sign autographs for a few young fans.

Once there, he trained away from the rest of the group, as he is still said to be dealing with an issue in his back.

Ter Stegen is still not back in group training. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

No longer No. 1

Barcelona have already informed Ter Stegen in a meeting with Hansi Flick that he is no longer considered the first-choice goalkeeper.

Joan Garcia is set to be the starting keeper at the Spotify Camp Nou, while Wojciech Szczesny will serve as the second-choice goalkeeper, having recently extended his contract until 2027.

Inaki Pena, meanwhile, is no longer in the club’s plans, and the sporting department is working on his departure. All three goalkeepers took part in this latest training session.

Ter Stegen, who is the first-team captain, remains under contract with Barcelona for the next three seasons, until 2028.

The 33-year-old’s salary is among the highest in the squad, and the club is currently exploring ways to reduce the wage bill, which could involve finding a solution regarding his contract.

However, the German is not willing to give up and remains determined to fight for his place and reclaim the starting spot.