: “Ter Stegen Fuming as Barcelona Hand No. 1 Spot to Joan García – Refuses to Leave Without Full Payout”
BREAKING NEWS: A dramatic situation is unfolding at FC Barcelona involving veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen and rising talent Joan García. The club has reportedly made the bold decision to name García as their first-choice goalkeeper for the 2025/26 season — a move that has infuriated Ter Stegen.
The Decision:
According to Spanish journalist Helena Condis, the club plans to officially inform Ter Stegen that he has lost his place as the starter. Instead, Joan García, recently brought in from Espanyol and viewed as a long-term solution, will now take over the gloves at Camp Nou.
Ter Stegen’s Reaction:
The German international is said to be deeply angered by the decision, especially considering his loyalty and decade-long service at the club. After recovering from injury and maintaining high performance levels in recent seasons, Ter Stegen reportedly feels blindsided and disrespected by the sudden shift.
Contract Stand-off:
Despite Barcelona possibly hoping to push him out to ease their financial burden, Ter Stegen is refusing to walk away quietly. He remains under contract until 2028 and has made it clear that he will not consider terminating his deal early unless the club pays him the full value of the remaining three years — a significant financial figure for a club already grappling with economic constraints.
A Club in Transition:
This situation highlights a broader trend under Hansi Flick’s new management. The German coach appears ready to usher in a generational change, prioritizing younger, more adaptable players to fit his tactical system. Joan García, only 24, fits that mold — dynamic, modern, and more affordable.
What This Means:
Barcelona’s board is now caught in a dilemma:
- Do they keep a high-earning, unhappy Ter Stegen as a backup?
- Or do they attempt to offload him — likely at a cost — just to finalize the transition?
This could also become a high-profile legal or contractual battle if the situation worsens. Moreover, the dressing room harmony may be at risk, especially considering Ter Stegen’s seniority and influence among the squa