Overview
- Marc-André Ter Stegen announced he will undergo a third back operation after consultations with Barcelona’s medical staff and external experts, with doctors estimating a recovery period of about three months.
- His extended absence rules him out of Germany’s upcoming Nations League fixtures and the start of the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
- Under coach Hansi Flick, Ter Stegen has been demoted to third-choice goalkeeper at FC Barcelona behind Joan García and Wojciech Szczesny, fueling transfer speculation linking him to Galatasaray, AS Monaco and Manchester City.
- Despite a contract running until 2028, Barcelona is reportedly eager to reduce its wage bill by moving Ter Stegen on, casting doubt on his prospects for regular playing time post-rehabilitation.
- Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann now faces a decision between recalling Manuel Neuer or promoting Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel and Bernd Leno as the national team’s new No. 1.