Overview
- Barcelona confirmed Marc-André ter Stegen left the Jeddah training camp after a knee problem in practice and returned to Catalonia for tests.
- Barça Atlètic goalkeeper Diego Kochen flew to Saudi Arabia to fill the vacancy, with Joan Garcia set to start and Wojciech Szczesny as the No. 2 for the Super Cup tie.
- Sporting director Deco said the goalkeeper felt knee discomfort, described the issue as not serious, and noted he traveled to be assessed by the surgeon who operated on him.
- A short-term loan remains uncertain pending medical clarity, with Girona exploring a deal that would likely require Barcelona to cover most of his wages due to salary-limit constraints.
- The setback comes soon after his return from back surgery and follows prior knee issues, leaving his push for regular minutes—and his Germany prospects for 2026—dependent on rapid recovery.