FC Barcelona have benefited from Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s presence in goal since 2014, with the German shot-stopper solidifying his role as a key pillar of the team throughout his decade-long tenure at the club.
While Ter Stegen has successfully fended off numerous challengers for his starting spot at Barcelona, his journey with the German national team has not unfolded as smoothly, with competition for the number 1 jersey proving far more challenging.
After all, Manuel Neuer has long held a firm grip on the numero uno spot for Germany, leaving Ter Stegen with few opportunities to replicate his indispensable status on the international stage.
However, with the legendary goalkeeper announcing his international retirement in August this year, a long-awaited window of opportunity has opened for Ter Stegen.
Ter Stegen’s time to shine has arrived
Indeed, German national team coach Julian Nagelsmann has come out to verify Ter Stegen’s ascension in the pecking order publicly.
Nagelsmann asserts that the 32-year-old has now become the clear first-choice goalkeeper. He recognized ter Stegen’s significant role at Barcelona, noting that his long-standing tenure and captaincy there have contributed to his current position with the team.
“Ter Stegen is the new number one in goal. He has been captain of Barça for years and is undisputed there. The same is true here with us,” the 37-year-old manager professed (h/t Toni Juanmarti).
This will come across as a major relief for Ter Stegen, who has never shied away from hiding his discontent with being second fiddle to Neuer.
In fact, ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024, the goalkeeper went as far as to say,“It’s not a pleasant situation.”
Ter Stegen most recently enjoyed his first clean sheet of the season with Barcelona, which included a great save in the first half.
Now, he will be vying to emulate his success against Hungary and the Netherlands in the upcoming international break.
The post Nagelsmann finally confirms Barcelona superstar’s starting role with international team appeared first on Barca Universal.
