Barcelona manager **Hansi Flick** has reportedly made a firm and controversial decision regarding veteran goalkeeper **Marc-André ter Stegen**, choosing to leave him out of his immediate plans due to concerns over his **attitude and conduct** following a recent injury comeback.
According to multiple reports, tensions flared when Ter Stegen’s **agent contacted Barça sporting director Deco**, insisting that the German goalkeeper was fully fit and should be reinstated in the squad for a crucial Champions League tie against Inter Milan. However, Flick was **unimpressed by the tone of the demand** and ultimately decided not to include Ter Stegen in the matchday squad—opting instead for **Wojciech Szczęsny** as the preferred option.
The situation took a turn for the worse when Ter Stegen reportedly **refused to travel with the team to Italy**, despite other recovering players such as **Jules Koundé** choosing to make the trip. This act was seen as a clear sign of **defiance** and further deepened the rift between the player and Flick’s coaching staff.
Sources suggest that the coaching team was particularly frustrated with Ter Stegen’s **eagerness to jump straight back into the starting XI**, seeing it as **disruptive and lacking humility**, especially after a long injury layoff. His insistence caused **friction in the dressing room**, with teammates and staff growing increasingly uncomfortable with his approach.
As a result, Ter Stegen’s standing in the squad has **dramatically declined**. While the club will not force him to leave, he has now been **demoted to third-choice goalkeeper**, behind both **Joan García**—Barcelona’s new signing—and Szczęsny. He will only feature if injuries sideline both options.
This tough stance from Flick sends a clear message: **discipline and unity come before reputation or seniority**. The German coach is determined to **rebuild the squad on his terms**, even if it involves challenging established hierarchies or parting with long-serving players.
Ter Stegen’s future at the club is now uncertain. Although he hasn’t been formally transfer-listed, Barcelona is understood to be **open to offers** for the 33-year-old this summer. Should a viable proposal arrive, a departure could become a reality.
The decision has sparked **divided reactions** among fans—some praising Flick for asserting control, others questioning the treatment of one of the club’s most loyal and decorated players.
Either way, this moment represents a clear shift in policy at Camp Nou: under Hansi Flick, **no one is untouchable**, and performances, attitude, and professionalism will dictate who earns a place on the team sheet.
