Barcelona agree club veteran must leave, want clean and respectful solution | OneFootball

According to a fresh report from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are preparing for life after Marc-Andre ter Stegen, with a clear decision having been reached within the club to part ways with the long-serving German goalkeeper this summer.

However, the intention is to facilitate his departure in a manner that respects his legacy and serves both parties.

The 33-year-old shot-stopper, who still has three years left on his contract, wants to stay at the club.

But behind the scenes, Barcelona are drawing up plans to transition to a new starting goalkeeper, and Hansi Flick will play a central role in delivering that message to the veteran.

Flick could force a big shift

With Joan Garcia’s arrival from Espanyol virtually sealed, Barça are preparing to hand the gloves to the 24-year-old Spaniard.

Flick reportedly considers Garcia as the future of the team in goal and is expected to make him the starter from day one of pre-season.

Barcelona want Ter Stegen to leave. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The responsibility now falls on Flick to communicate this shift directly to Ter Stegen. The coach’s relationship with his compatriot could ease this difficult conversation, but Barcelona expect him to be firm and transparent about the club’s new direction.

The decision is rooted not only in sporting reasons but also in broader considerations, including the German keeper’s recent handling of the captaincy and internal dissatisfaction among the technical staff and board.

A delicate exit plan for a club icon

Barcelona are well aware that Ter Stegen is unlikely to go quietly. Given his status as a senior player and his existing contract, the club is preparing for a complex negotiation.

Their aim is to reach a mutual agreement that avoids public fallout and allows Ter Stegen to continue his career elsewhere.

There is a strong consensus within the club that it is time for a change. While Ter Stegen has given the club nearly a decade of high-level performances and leadership, recent months have revealed tensions.

Hence, if a suitable offer arrives and Ter Stegen is open to a dignified exit, Barcelona would view the operation as ideal.