Barcelona have confirmed that club captain and first-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen will not be part of the squad traveling to Japan and South Korea later this week for their pre-season tour.
The German international, who has been dealing with ongoing discomfort related to a lingering injury, will remain in Barcelona as medical staff closely monitor his condition. According to reports from Sergi Solé of Mundo Deportivo, there is now serious consideration being given to surgical intervention a decision that could have major implications for both the player and the club.
If ter Stegen does undergo surgery, his recovery period could stretch up to four months, ruling him out for a significant portion of the first half of the 2025/26 season. While this is a blow to Barça’s stability at the back, the development opens a strategic door under La Liga regulations.
In the event of a long-term injury layoff, FC Barcelona would be permitted to use 80% of ter Stegen’s gross salary toward registering a replacement. That replacement, insiders suggest, is most likely to be Joan García, the young and highly rated goalkeeper recently signed from RCD Espanyol.
This situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Hansi Flick’s squad the challenge of starting the season without one of their most consistent and experienced leaders, and the opportunity to integrate a hungry, promising talent into top-flight action.
A final decision on surgery is expected soon, as Barça’s medical team evaluates all options with caution. But one thing is now certain Ter Stegen will not be boarding the flight to Kobe this Thursday
