The future of Marc-André ter Stegen at FC Barcelona is beginning to show signs of turning into a true summer saga. The German goalkeeper, 33 years old and under contract until June 30, 2028, returned to training ahead of schedule, and his message seems clear: he doesn't see himself outside the Catalan team, at least not this summer window.
The goalkeeping revolution: Joan García and Szczesny step in
However, after the latest twist, it wouldn’t be surprising if the German considered a change of scenery this summer. According to Catalunya Ràdio, Hansi Flick has already informed Ter Stegen that he won’t be the starter in the 2025/26 season.
The plan would be to bet on the summer signing, Joan García, as the number one. In addition, the newly-renewed Wojciech Szczęsny would be second in command.
Even so, the Barça board will not take coercive measures —such as leaving him out of the squad— to force his departure. The will of 'MATS' will be respected and he will be given the chance to fight for the starting spot, just as he did in the past against strong competitors like Claudio Bravo and Jasper Cillessen.
Marc-André ter Stegen and a decision with the 2026 World Cup in mind
The newspaper SPORT adds that the talk took place at the Ciutat Esportiva in a cordial atmosphere. Barcelona reportedly justified the move as part of a plan to revamp the position with a young goalkeeper with great potential—just as it happened in the 2016/17 season, when Ter Stegen ended up taking over the position from Claudio Bravo, who left for Manchester City… also at the age of 33.
From this Barça decision onward, it remains to be seen what 'MATS' will do, as he cannot afford to be second —let alone third— in a season with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. He needs regular minutes if he wants Julian Nagelsmann to continue backing him as the starter for the 'Mannschaft'.
Barcelona has several options on the table to resolve 'MATS's future
For Barcelona, the German's departure this summer would seem like the most sensible option: it would free up a significant salary slot (Ter Stegen earns around €6.3M gross per season) and could result in a transfer fee for a player who still has market value and suitors.
CLUBS THAT HAVE REPORTEDLY SHOWN INTEREST IN TER STEGEN:
- AS Monaco
- Galatasaray
- Manchester City
- Al Hilal
A contract termination is not off the table either—although it’s a more complicated route. However, the German doesn’t seem willing to facilitate his exit: all signs point to him demanding full payment of his contract until 2028.
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