After seeing Ter Stegen serve as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for a decade, Barcelona decided it was time for a new goalkeeper to take over the reins and lead the Catalans into a era. Garcia, who was one of the best goalkeepers in Europe last season with Espanyol, was signed by the reigning La Liga champions under controversial circumstances for around €25 million (£22m/$29m), much to the disappointment of an enraged Ter Stegen.
The 24-year-old started in the all of Barca’s first seven games of the season, drawing praise for his authority inside the box and for his incredible goalkeeping abilities.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo Szczesny said: “I don’t think it’s a pleasant situation. I was in the same situation with Juventus and decided to retire from football. I don’t advise the same thing to Marc, because he still has a lot to contribute to football, but I think sometimes, in this job, you have to accept that some decisions hurt you.
“The club decided to sign Joan and had the opportunity to bring in a world-class talent who can play for Barca for the next 15 years. It must be frustrating for him after being such an important player for so many years, but Marc is a very intelligent guy, and I think he understands. It’s not just a decision for the club’s present, but also for the future.
“We spoke a lot this summer, and I think he understands. The most important thing for him now is to get back into shape, because he missed the entire last year. He’s currently dealing with an old injury, so as soon as he recovers, I’m sure he still has a lot to contribute to football.”
The German international, who trained away from the squad during pre-season, sparked internal conflict after posting a personal medical update following his lower back surgery without informing the club – an action that reportedly infuriated Barca’s hierarchy. Complicating matters further, Ter Stegen initially refused to grant consent for the release of his medical records, raising concerns over the registration of summer signing Garcia and potentially delaying the process ahead of La Liga’s opening weekend. The standoff escalated to the point where legal action was considered, and the club responded by stripping him of the captaincy. However, after weeks of strained dialogue, a resolution was reached. Ter Stegen’s role as team captain was quickly restored, bringing an end to the standoff.
Despite being tied to the Catalans until 2028, it remains to be seen whether Ter Stegen remains at the club beyond next summer. Sidelined until late November after his surgery, the 33-year-old will hope to get chances to prove himself, in case he remains determined to stay at the club. There have been, however, no shortage in offers for the experienced custodian, with reports recently revealing that three Premier League clubs could line up an offer for the Barca captain.
