In a surprising development, a major European club has recently experienced a significant internal shake-up. A top official has requested that a key player leave the team right away, rather than finishing out his contract. This decision follows internal changes signaling a major overhaul in the squad, especially in a crucial position.
Once a vital player, this individual has become a technical and financial liability, with increasing pressure to resolve his future definitively.
Joan Laporta recently met with the troubled player, strongly encouraging him to depart the club as soon as possible.
According to El Nacional, Marc-André ter Stegen’s position at Barcelona has become untenable, particularly after the signing of Juan García, who agreed to join on the condition he would be the starting goalkeeper for all competitions, playing every minute possible.
García declined more lucrative offers elsewhere to join Barcelona because of this promise. The club accepted this arrangement and is now focused on finding a way for Ter Stegen, the current captain, to exit, as confidence in him has notably diminished.
Although still considered world-class, Ter Stegen’s frequent injuries, some requiring surgery, and his advancing age have raised doubts about his ability to consistently perform at the highest level.
Coach Hansi Flick would theoretically welcome having two top goalkeepers—García and Ter Stegen (pending García’s official signing)—but recognizes that such a scenario is unrealistic.
Ter Stegen is unlikely to accept a backup role, especially in a critical season ahead of the World Cup, where he is a strong candidate to succeed Manuel Neuer as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Additionally, Barcelona cannot justify paying a high salary to a player who isn’t regularly playing, prompting the club to encourage Ter Stegen’s departure.
Several clubs, including AC Milan, Olympique de Marseille, AS Monaco, Juventus, and teams from the Saudi Pro League, have shown interest in signing him. Laporta and Deco are working to facilitate a smooth exit.
The club is willing to accept reasonable offers or even release Ter Stegen by mutual agreement, provided he parts ways respectfully in a manner that benefits both him and the club.
However, the main challenge is Ter Stegen’s current refusal to compromise. He believes he can prove in preseason that he deserves to remain the starter and outperform García.
Ter Stegen demands significant financial compensation to leave Barcelona, where his contract extends until 2028, unwilling to forfeit the guaranteed money in his deal.
That is a good idea also to reduce the financial stress on the club..