Marc-André ter Stegen spoke frankly about his future with FC Barcelona at the press conference for Germany-Portugal for the 'semis' of the UEFA Nations League. The Barça goalkeeper was asked by journalists about the imminent signing of Joan García and how the arrival of the Espanyol goalkeeper may affect his role in the Barça team.
Referring to whether he is emotionally affected by the rumors about Barça's possible interest in putting him on the market this summer, the '1' categorically ruled out his departure. "No one has told me about this, so I don't know the situation. I'm not worried about it. I know I'll be at Barcelona next year," explained the captain.
Ter Stegen warns: whoever arrives must compete with him for the Barça goal
Marc-André has a contract until 2028 and, in theory, will be a starter at the beginning of the season with Hansi Flick's team, regardless of Wojciech Szczesny's renewal or the incorporation of another goalkeeper. In that sense, the Mönchengladbach native also surprised by forgetting the presence of 'Tek' next season, as the Pole will sign a new contract shortly.
"If I remember correctly, and if there has been no news in the last few hours, we only have two goalkeepers for next season, Iñaki (Peña) and me. So, basically, we have competition for this position and it's between Iñaki and me. Whoever comes in always has to, no matter what, deal with this competition," he argued.
In addition, he added: "any player, in any position, has to face that. The same thing happened in recent years, as we had great goalkeepers, who also came with great ambitions. And that's how it should be," Ter Stegen pointed out.
On the other hand, the German valued the possibility of reinforcing the squad, reiterating his desire to continue helping the club as one of its references. "It is natural that Barcelona always seeks to develop and improve, that is clear to me. I will always try to give my best," commented the '1' culé.
"We always want to sign the best players. This is our goal. Whether it's in the goalkeeper position or any other position, there's no difference."
Maximum excitement for Ter Stegen looking ahead to the future with Barça and Germany
Similarly, given the insistence of journalists to know Barça's position regarding his future, Ter Stegen reiterated that he has not spoken this week with either Hansi Flick or any member of the Barça board, as his permanence at the club has never been in doubt.
"There has been no contact in recent days because I see no reason for that at this time. There has been no event that justifies the conversation. Honestly, the focus is here now," insisted the Barça captain.
Finally, Marc-André expressed his excitement about returning to the German national team and, starting in the summer, competing again at full strength with a Barça that is looking for another season with many titles. "I am very excited about what is to come, for next season and before that, of course, for the next matches. Happy to be back and be able to do what I like the most."
Ter Stegen will start for Germany in the semi-final of the 'final four' of the Nations League against Portugal, next Wednesday in Munich (21:00 CEST). A day later, at the same time, Spain will face France looking for their pass to the final. Of the four semi-finalists, the Germans are the only ones who have not won the trophy, while La Roja is the current champion.
"Barça is probably one of the biggest clubs in the world and there is always competition, no matter the circumstances."
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