Former Barcelona star calls for Ter Stegen to start over Joan García | OneFootball

An ex-member of the midfield ranks at La Liga giants Barcelona has this week revealed his take that Marc-André ter Stegen should still be considered the club’s no.1.

Shot-stopper Ter Stegen has of course seen his future in Catalunya’s capital thrown firmly up in the air this summer.

Following the arrival of Joan García, and the contract renewal afforded to Wojciech Szczęsny, the widespread understanding is that the German is now considered 3rd-choice between the posts in Hansi Flick’s squad.

Owing to as much, Ter Stegen has been hotly tipped for a Camp Nou exit across the summer to date.

As alluded to above, though, one individual who remains fully behind the 33-year-old in his efforts to turn things around in Barcelona is Ivan Rakitić.

Speaking during an interview with COPE this week, Rakitić, a former Blaugrana teammate of Ter Stegen, was asked for his take on the goalkeeper situation in Catalunya’s capital at present.

And the Croatian made use of the opportunity to throw his full backing behind Ter Stegen:

“I spoke to him and he seemed very excited and happy. I hope his injury isn’t serious and he can return soon. Between Joan García and Ter Stegen, it’s very easy. Ter Stegen plays. He’s the captain and a highly respected player at Barça.

“With Marc healthy, there’s no doubt about it. I wish all Barcelona’s problems were about choosing between three great players. Joan has a lot of talent and he’s going to have to earn it. It’s one thing to play for a La Liga team, and another to be Barcelona’s number one. I don’t see a better goalkeeper in Europe or the world.”

Quotes via Mundo Deportivo

Conor Laird – GSFN