La Liga manager singles out Barcelona loanee after eye-catching debut: ‘He offers us something rare’ | OneFootball

Girona were forced to settle for a dramatic 1-1 draw against Getafe in a game that delivered late drama and several key storylines. 

The clash had everything: debuts, a first goal, tension until the final whistle, and a decisive late intervention that ensured the home side avoided defeat.

The standout moment arrived right at the death, when Vitor Reis popped up with a last-gasp goal to rescue a point for Girona. 

Just moments earlier, the Catalan side had been staring at defeat, but belief never dropped, and the late equaliser rewarded their persistence.

Strong performance from Ter Stegen

Another major talking point was the debut of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who featured for Girona while on loan from Barcelona. 

The goalkeeper made an immediate impact, producing a superb save in the closing seconds to deny Getafe a winning goal and effectively secure the draw.

After the match, Girona coach Michel reflected on Ter Stegen’s first appearance and the quality he brings to the squad. 

Praising the goalkeeper’s performance and technical ability, the coach said,

“I am lucky to have three great goalkeepers. He made a fantastic debut. 

“In terms of his playing ability, he offers us something rare in professional football, with great footwork and always pushing forward,” he said.

Míchel also addressed the delicate situation involving the club’s other goalkeepers, Paulo Gazzaniga and Dominik Livakovic. 

While refusing to go into private details, the Girona boss explained his reasoning and made it clear the decision was not taken lightly. He said,

“The conversation stays between us. It’s my decision, a difficult and complicated one. But that’s why I’m the coach, that’s why I decided to play Marc. 

“He had a great game, a fantastic game. He’s a player who gives us a lot when it comes to bringing the ball out. 

“And the save he made at the end was very good. I’ve spoken to everyone about this, and they are great professionals. They have accepted my decision well,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT