33-year-old Barcelona captain makes Germany return for international duty | OneFootball

It’s been a turbulent season for FC Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Once expected to be a cornerstone of Hansi Flick’s first campaign in charge, the German goalkeeper has spent much of the year sidelined by a long-term injury.

Even before his injury, the 33-year-old did not look at his imperious best and his return since has also not inspired much confidence. He is the first club captain for Barcelona but his performances in recent seasons have left a lot to be desired.

Ter Stegen has been at Barcelona for a decade now and has been through the club’s best and worst moments in this period. He has had seasons where has looked like the best goalkeeper in the world but there have also been the other extremes.

Szczesny has stepped in admirably for Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Wojciech Szczesny to the rescue

In Ter Stegen’s absence, Barcelona signed Wojciech Szczesny who came out of retirement to play for the Catalan club and has done a brilliant job since. Thus, it is far from clear what the future holds inbetween the posts for the German international.

As per Mundo Deportivo, Germany have named the Barcelona captain in their squad for the Nations League games this summer, and this marks a much-awaited return to the national team for the goalkeeper who will want to have a good showing.

For much of his international career, Ter Stegen has been forced to play second-fiddle to Manuel Neuer, who retired from international football only recently. Thus, the Barcelona captain has a chance to make that number one position his own.

Fighting for the number one

What does the future hold for Ter Stegen? (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Alexander Nubel and Oliver Baumann are the other options for Julian Nagelsmann in the squad and one would have to assume that provided he proves his fitness, Ter Stegen should get the chance to start during the Nations League.

The upcoming Nations League campaign presents a crucial opportunity for Ter Stegen to reassert his credentials on the international stage, especially now that long-time rival Manuel Neuer has stepped aside.

If the Barcelona captain can deliver strong performances for Germany, it might not only boost his confidence but also reshape the narrative surrounding his future at Camp Nou. The next few months could prove pivotal for both club and country as Ter Stegen seeks to reclaim his place among the game’s elite.