"In fact, according to a report from AS, the Barcelona manager had a very specific objective in mind when he made that call, one that went beyond the result of a Copa del Rey tie. The German coach wanted to place Ter Stegen firmly in the spotlight. After months of recovery from a lower back injury, Flick felt this was the right moment to publicly show that the goalkeeper was fully fit again."
"In the build-up to the game, most of the squad expected Wojciech Szczesny to get the nod. However, Flick held conversations with both goalkeepers just hours before kick-off and ultimately opted to start Ter Stegen. The decision surprised many, but it was rooted in careful planning rather than impulse. Flick did not want to risk frustration or objections from the captain, especially after a long injury layoff that had already tested the goalkeeper's patience."
Hansi Flick started Marc-Andre ter Stegen against CD Guadalajara to publicly demonstrate the goalkeeper's full recovery from a lower back injury. Flick spoke with both goalkeepers hours before kick-off and chose Ter Stegen despite internal expectations favoring Wojciech Szczesny. The selection aimed to confirm Ter Stegen's fitness while avoiding reintroduction in higher-risk La Liga or Champions League matches. Flick used the Copa del Rey setting to manage dressing room dynamics and protect the club's hierarchy, mindful of Ter Stegen's influence and the captain's potential frustration. The decision also aimed to prevent outside clubs from doubting Ter Stegen's readiness ahead of the winter window.
Read at Barca Universal
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