Barcelona could soon welcome back one of their most experienced figures, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen expected to receive medical clearance next week and return to the matchday squad for the upcoming La Liga fixture against Osasuna.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the goalkeeper is now in the final phase of recovery from a lower back injury that has kept him sidelined for several months, and his progress in recent days has been encouraging.
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Ter Stegen has significantly stepped up the intensity of his daily training sessions as he pushes towards full fitness.
Medical staff are now confident that he will be cleared in time to be available for selection next Saturday.
His inclusion in the squad would mark an important milestone after more than four months away from competitive action, which is a far longer absence than originally anticipated at the time of his surgery.
Unlikely to play though
As such, his return to the squad does not necessarily mean an immediate return to the starting line-up.
Hansi Flick currently has a clear hierarchy between the posts, with Joan Garcia firmly established as the first-choice goalkeeper and Wojciech Szczesny operating as the regular backup.
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Within that context, Ter Stegen is expected to begin his comeback on the bench, with the priority being a careful and controlled reintegration rather than rushing him back into action.
Ter Stegen is likely to return next week. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The situation surrounding Ter Stegen’s absence has not been straightforward. The goalkeeper had initially estimated that he would be out for around three months, but his recovery has now extended beyond four.
His injury period was also accompanied by internal tension when he refused to allow Barcelona to use his medical data in an attempt to free up La Liga salary space to register Joan Garcia.
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What now for Ter Stegen?
Looking ahead, the timing of Ter Stegen’s return is particularly significant.
The January transfer window opens on January 1, and the German international knows that regular match minutes are essential if he hopes to secure a place in Germany’s plans for the upcoming World Cup.
Playing opportunities will therefore be a decisive factor in his short-term future.
Barcelona remain committed to honouring Ter Stegen’s contract, which runs until 2028, as well as the salary attached to it.
However, there is a quiet understanding within the club that the goalkeeper may consider a move in January if a suitable opportunity arises.
Should that scenario emerge and prove financially and sporting-wise beneficial, Barcelona are not expected to block his departure.
