Ter Stegen edges toward full fitness as Barcelona weigh their winter priorities

"Marc André ter Stegen's long road back from summer back surgery is almost over. After months of rehab, the 33-year-old has rejoined group sessions and is progressing smoothly, showing no lingering discomfort from the operation he underwent in late July. His return has been gradual and carefully managed, but the expectation within the club is that he could receive medical clearance as early as next week."

"For now, though, Joan Garcia keeps the No. 1 shirt. The young keeper has impressed Hansi Flick since preseason, and barring an unexpected twist, he is set to remain the starter even once Ter Stegen is fully fit. That reality leaves the German in a complicated position. Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has made it clear that he needs minutes to secure his place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and sitting on the bench in Barcelona will not help him get there."

"Publicly, Ter Stegen has repeated that he wants to stay and fight for his spot. Privately, his representatives are reportedly surveying the market in case he chooses to push for a January move. Radio reports in Spain suggest that several clubs would be willing to take him on loan if he decides to leave, though his sizeable salary would likely require Barcelona to shoulder part of it. Inside the club, the tone is slightly different."

Marc André ter Stegen is nearing full recovery after summer back surgery and has rejoined group sessions, with medical clearance possible next week. Joan Garcia currently holds the No. 1 shirt and is expected to remain starter given his strong preseason form. Julian Nagelsmann requires Ter Stegen to play regularly to secure a place for the 2026 World Cup. Ter Stegen has publicly committed to staying while his representatives quietly explore January options, with potential loan interest complicated by his salary. Club executives say the relationship is repaired and that any midseason exit would need to be initiated by the player. Deco has emphasized recovery first and acknowledged Ter Stegen will likely seek playing options as the World Cup approaches.

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