THE GERMAN COULD RETURN THIS SEASON
The return of Ter Stegen to Barça is getting closer! Discover all the details
Published:8/02/2025 - 17:50h
Updated:8/02/2025 - 22:01h
Hansi Flick opened a window for the possible return of Ter Stegen in the 2024/25 season. The coach assured that the goalkeeper "has started training again" and his recovery is progressing very well
Marc-André ter Stegen could be the big surprise for FC Barcelona in the final stretch of the 2024/25 season. Although the '1' had practically ruled out making a comeback this season after suffering a serious injury in September, Hansi Flick opened the door to his possible return to the azulgrana team much earlier than expected. Initially, the German international was not expected to play again until July or August, according to the usual recovery timelines for such complex injuries.
"What is discussed with the doctors is private information. He has also started training, which is a first step. He has improved a lot, we are happy. Everything is going well", commented the coach at the press conference before the Sevilla-Barça match on Sunday. The last appearance of the '1' with the azulgrana team was in the final of the Supercopa de España, when he accompanied the squad during the award ceremony in Arabia. In fact, the German was the one who lifted the trophy.
The innovative treatment that could accelerate Ter Stegen's recovery
Ter Stegen suffered a complete rupture of the patellar tendon in his right knee on September 22 against Villarreal (1-5). After undergoing surgery, the prognosis was 8 to 9 months of recovery, meaning the azulgrana captain would miss the entire season. However, the 32-year-old player could significantly shorten his recovery thanks to an innovative stem cell treatment.
Doctor Robert Soler has been in charge of supervising the treatment in the Catalan capital, allowing the footballer to perform physical work using a brace just a couple of months after undergoing surgery. Additionally, the technique reduces the risk of future injuries by completely regenerating the damaged tissue in an area where the player from Mönchengladbach has already suffered several issues.
Marc-André returned to work at the Ciutat Esportiva in mid-November and is improving his sensations as he approaches the final stretch of the 24-25 season, although it is unlikely that Flick will decide to take risks with him for the final part of the season. What is certain is that the German will regain his starting position next season, after renewing until 2028 in August 2023.
