Barcelona captain’s potential exit could lead to the departure of Hansi Flick’s staff member – report | OneFootball

According to a report by AS, it has come to light that Barcelona’s long-time goalkeeping coach, Jose Ramon de la Fuente, could be forced to leave the club if Marc-Andre ter Stegen departs this summer.

The coach’s future is directly linked to that of the German goalkeeper, and with the club now close to signing Joan Garcia from Espanyol, uncertainty surrounds both men.

De la Fuente has been with Barcelona since 2012 and formed a close bond with Ter Stegen after the German’s arrival in 2014. Over the years, that relationship has only strengthened.

In fact, last summer, Ter Stegen insisted that the club extend De la Fuente’s contract, even though incoming manager Hansi Flick had plans to bring in his own goalkeeping coach, Toni Tapalovic.

The captain’s influence was so strong that the club agreed to tie De la Fuente’s contract to Ter Stegen’s, meaning both are under contract until 2028.

Everything can change at once

Jose Ramon de la Fuente’s future is tied to Ter Stegen’s. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Things, however, have shifted quickly. With Barcelona preparing to announce the arrival of Garcia, there is growing pressure on the club to make decisions regarding Ter Stegen’s role.

The 33-year-old has made it clear that he does not intend to leave, but his age and €10 million annual salary are major concerns for the management.

If Ter Stegen refuses to accept reduced playing time or a pay cut, the situation could escalate.

And should the club push him out, De la Fuente may also be shown the door, particularly as Flick already has a trusted coach in Tapalovic.

As a result, the next few weeks will be key. If Ter Stegen leaves, De la Fuente’s position becomes almost impossible to defend.

And even if the German stays but loses prominence, his longtime ally may still find himself edged out. For now, all eyes remain on the captain’s next move.