"We don't know for sure but Flick hardly gave the goalkeeper a ringing endorsement when asked about his team selection. "Marc is the captain and has played many games in the 12 years he has been here," Flick said afterwards. "We talked with the rest of the coaches and we wanted to give him the opportunity to play. He is back, it is only for this match and I think it is a good next step.""
"Flick has already said publicly that Joan Garcia is his No. 1 this season and his "it's only for this match" comment simply seemed to reinforce that message to Ter Stegen. Indeed the general feeling seemed to be that Barca were putting Ter Stegen in shop window and making it clear to any potential admirers that the German is fit again and ready to play after a long spell out."
Marc-Andre ter Stegen returned to action in the Copa del Rey win over Guadalajara, making his first appearance since summer surgery. His inclusion surprised observers after reports earlier suggested Wojciech Szczęsny would start. Hansi Flick framed the appearance as a one-off, calling Ter Stegen captain and saying the coaches wanted to give him an opportunity. Flick has already designated Joan Garcia as the season's No.1, reinforcing uncertainty over Ter Stegen's role. Ter Stegen kept a clean sheet and looked comfortable, but a January exit appears likely for him to secure regular playing time and pursue Germany World Cup ambitions.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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