Flick announces Ter Stegen's return at Barcelona

Barcelona fans will finally see Marc-André ter Stegen back between the posts this Saturday as the German goalkeeper returns from a long-term injury layoff in the La Liga match against Real Valladolid.

Ter Stegen, who had been out for seven months due to a serious knee injury, has worked his way back to full fitness and is now ready to reclaim his spot in the starting eleven. The news was confirmed by Barça manager Hansi Flick during Friday's pre-match press conference, where he offered a light-hearted but clear response: “Yes, Marc will play tomorrow. We can end the press conference now.”

The announcement marks an important moment in Barcelona's season and for Ter Stegen personally. Before his injury, the 32-year-old was one of the team’s most consistent performers, known for his shot-stopping ability, composure under pressure, and key role in building play from the back. His absence forced Barcelona to look elsewhere, and in response, the club signed veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny on a free transfer to provide cover. The 35-year-old Pole stepped in with experience and professionalism, helping the team navigate a difficult stretch of the campaign. But with Ter Stegen back to full fitness, Szczęsny is expected to return to the bench.

Flick, however, refused to guarantee that Ter Stegen would remain the starting goalkeeper for the remainder of the season. While he praised the German’s form and progression in training, he left the door open for future adjustments. “It’s good for goalkeepers to get minutes,” he said. “Marc is on the right track, and his training performances have been excellent. I’m not thinking of making changes until the end of the season, but things can always evolve. That’s how the situation stands for now. For the moment, Marc will play tomorrow.”

His comments reflect not only Flick’s attention to form and fitness but also a pragmatic view of the weeks ahead. With Barcelona facing a congested fixture list that includes critical league matches and a looming Champions League semi-final clash against Internazionale, managing player load is now a top priority. “We need to be smart about it,” Flick said. “The schedule is demanding. We’ll have to rely on the medical staff to assess who needs rest. Rotation will be essential.”

Flick also indicated that Saturday’s match could have direct implications for the starting lineup against Inter, which will be one of Barcelona’s most important games in recent years. “If the match against Valladolid takes an unexpected turn, it might influence our choices for the Champions League. That’s how football works. Every match offers new information.”

The coach insisted that every available player will travel to Valladolid as he wants the full group involved. “Everyone who is fit will be with us. We need all the positive energy we can get. I’ve seen great things in training. The mood is good, and the players are pushing each other. That gives me confidence.”

While Barcelona have already secured Champions League qualification for next season, the team’s domestic form has been inconsistent. Flick is looking to use the final stretch of La Liga to refine his squad’s rhythm, fitness, and mentality ahead of the European showdown. He also wants to maintain competitive intensity in the league, even if the title race is already settled.

The return of Ter Stegen is undoubtedly a boost. The German has been one of Barcelona’s most reliable figures over the past decade, and his leadership, presence, and ability to command the back line could be crucial in the high-pressure matches to come. Having missed such a significant chunk of the season, he now returns with motivation and a point to prove not only to help his club in the final matches but also to secure his place in the German national team for the upcoming European Championship.

For fans, Saturday’s match will be more than just a league fixture it will be a celebration of one of the club’s longest-serving players returning to action. And for Flick, it will be another opportunity to assess his squad as he looks to balance short-term results with long-term structure.