La Liga: Barcelona dismiss January exit rumours for Ter Stegen
La Liga: Barcelona dismiss January exit rumours for Ter Stegen
FC Barcelona have dismissed speculation linking goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen with a possible move away from Camp Nou in the January transfer window.
In a statement on Monday, the Catalan giants insisted that the German international remains “a fundamental part of the team’s present and future,” adding that there are no plans to sanction his departure despite growing rumours.
Ter Stegen, who has been Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper for nearly a decade, is currently sidelined with injury but continues to hold a central role in the club’s long-term project.
Widely regarded as one of the best shot-stoppers in Europe, the 32-year-old has also served as one of the squad’s vice-captains, underlining his leadership both on and off the pitch.
Speculation about his future intensified following the surprise arrival of Joan Garcia from city rivals Espanyol earlier this month. The young Spanish goalkeeper’s signing raised questions about succession planning within the squad, with some reports suggesting that Ter Stegen could be eased out in January.
However, Barcelona’s management stressed that Garcia’s arrival was aimed at strengthening depth and providing competition, not replacing their long-serving No. 1.
“Marc has been, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of this club,” a source at the club was quoted as saying.
“His commitment and leadership are unquestionable, and he remains central to our ambitions this season and beyond.”
Ter Stegen, who joined Barcelona from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014, has made over 400 appearances for the Blaugrana, winning multiple La Liga and Copa del Rey titles, as well as the UEFA Champions League.
The German international is expected to return from injury later this season as Barcelona push to defend their La Liga crown and make a deeper run in Europe.
