Fri Jan 16 20:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Ter Stegen Loan to Girona Imminent After Losing Barcelona Starting Role

The Story:

Veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, 33, is reportedly on the verge of a loan move from FC Barcelona to fellow LaLiga side Girona until the end of the season. This decision follows the emergence of Joan García as Barcelona’s preferred No. 1, coupled with ter Stegen’s desire for regular playing time to secure his spot in Germany’s squad for the World Cup this summer. The two clubs are finalizing the loan agreement, including salary allocation.

Key Points:

  • Ter Stegen, 33, is finalizing a loan move to Girona.
  • Joan García has replaced Ter Stegen as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper.
  • Ter Stegen seeks regular playing time to secure his place in the German World Cup squad.
  • The decision was influenced by being benched in the Copa del Rey win against Racing Santander.
  • Girona’s proximity to Barcelona allows Ter Stegen to stay close to his children.
  • Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has made it clear that García is the first-choice goalkeeper.
  • Barcelona will pay 90% of Ter Stegen’s Salary
  • Ter Stegen has a contract with Barcelona until 2028.

Critical Analysis:

The loan deal makes sense for all parties involved. Ter Stegen, at 33, still believes he has a contribution to make at the international level and sitting on the bench would jeopardize that. Barcelona, having invested in García and with Szczęsny also in the squad, can afford to let Ter Stegen go. By paying a significant portion of his salary, they facilitate the move while freeing up playing time for their younger keepers and a player who is ready to leave. Girona gains an experienced goalkeeper for a crucial period, potentially bolstering their squad for the remainder of the season, especially if they are in contention for European places.

Key Takeaways:

  • The rise of younger goalkeepers forces experienced players to seek opportunities elsewhere.
  • The desire for World Cup participation can be a powerful motivator for players seeking transfers.
  • Loan deals can provide mutually beneficial solutions for clubs with surplus talent or players seeking more playing time.
  • Hansi Flick is decisively shaping the Barcelona squad, prioritizing youth and competition.
  • Barcelona is willing to pay a significant portion of a player’s salary to facilitate their departure when the player is no longer in their plans.

Impact Analysis:

  • Ter Stegen’s departure, even on loan, marks a shift in Barcelona’s goalkeeping hierarchy. Joan García’s performance over the next few months will be closely scrutinized, solidifying or undermining his position as the long-term No. 1.
  • The success of Ter Stegen’s loan spell at Girona could influence future transfer strategies for both clubs, particularly in managing aging players and developing young talent.
  • The move could potentially impact Germany’s goalkeeping selection for the World Cup, depending on Ter Stegen’s form and playing time at Girona.

    Read More