Barcelona‘s goalkeeping landscape looks uncertain now that Marc-André ter Stegen is back in training after a knee injury. He might reclaim his spot in the Champions League squad, but only if the club opts to deregister Wojciech Szczęsny, who joined as Ter Stegen’s injury replacement. It’s a tough call for everyone involved, and there’s an added complication: will Barça keep Szczęsny next season if both goalkeepers are fully fit?
Szczęsny has been candid about the situation. Asked if he’d step aside once Ter Stegen is cleared to play, the Polish veteran said, “If Marc is back and fit and the coach decides he’s back in goal, I am fine with it. But I want to play.” His tone was calm, yet determined, reflecting a man who already left retirement to embrace one of the trickiest challenges of his career.
Flick carefully navigates Barcelona’s goalie situation
While some supporters wonder if Szczęsny could be de-registered from the Champions League roster, head coach Hansi Flick has declined to confirm any plan. “Anything can happen in football. I can’t answer you 100%,” he said when pressed. Ter Stegen’s recovery timetable remains fluid, but if he’s ready, Flick might face a dilemma well into next season. Szczęsny’s contract runs only until summer, yet rumors suggest possible talks for an extension.
Balancing immediate results against long-term stability is one of Barça’s bigger issues. They remain in contention for multiple trophies this year, and surrendering momentum in goal could carry a steep price. Szczęsny has made 22 appearances since January without a single loss, though he’s faced criticism for a few errors. Ter Stegen, on the other hand, is revered in Catalonia, having anchored Barcelona through triumphs and setbacks.
Speaking ahead of the Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Borussia Dortmund, Szczęsny reiterated his respect for his teammate, saying, “He’s won the Champions League and I haven’t. It doesn’t make sense to compare us.” Despite the 4-0 advantage from the first match, he doesn’t want complacency to set in. “I like winning,” he said. “It’s a nice feeling, and we still have work to do.”
The club’s front office must also weigh Szczęsny’s future. If he continues delivering consistent performances, he might push Ter Stegen in ways the German hasn’t been challenged before. For a team eyeing a historic trophy haul, competition could be healthy, though the implications for next season’s roster remain unclear.
Barcelona fans, here’s the question: If Ter Stegen is fully fit, would you stick with Szczęsny or turn back to the longtime No. 1? Share your thoughts and join the debate.
