September 23, (THEWILL) – Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after sustaining a serious knee injury.
The German international suffered a complete rupture of the patella tendon in his right knee during Barcelona’s 5-1 La Liga victory over Villarreal on Sunday. The club confirmed that ter Stegen has undergone successful surgery, but reports suggest he could be out for approximately eight months.
The injury occurred before half-time at Villarreal’s Estadio de la Ceramica, with ter Stegen being stretchered off the field. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating: “I think it will be a huge injury.” Inaki Pena replaced ter Stegen during the match and is expected to take over goalkeeping duties in his absence.
This setback comes at a crucial time for both Barcelona and the German national team. Ter Stegen, who had recently started for Germany following Manuel Neuer’s retirement from international duty, will likely miss the remainder of the 2023/2024 season. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed his support, saying: “The news of Marc’s injury came as a great shock to us. He will be sorely missed in the national team, both on and off the pitch.”
The injury has prompted reactions from across the football world. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti offered his sympathies, describing ter Stegen as “one of the best goalkeepers in the world” and wishing him a swift recovery. Barcelona may now consider signing a replacement goalkeeper, although Flick stated it was too early to discuss such matters immediately after the match.
Ter Stegen’s absence will be keenly felt by Barcelona, where he serves as both first-choice goalkeeper and team captain. The 32-year-old made 12 La Liga appearances last season while recovering from a back problem. The focus now will be on how Barca adapt to this significant loss and manage their goalkeeping situation for the remainder of the season.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
