Ter Stegen’s message with Germany: “I always aim to be No 1”

In partnership with

Superlider

·25 September 2026

Ter Stegen’s message with Germany: “I always aim to be No 1”

Marc-André ter Stegen once again took center stage with the German national team. The goalkeeper delivered a standout performance in the 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, in a match that gave him another chance to show that he wants to regain a leading role between the posts.

The Barcelona keeper, currently on loan at Ajax, could not prevent Cody Gakpo’s goal in stoppage time, but he still left a very positive impression on his international return.

OneFootball Videos

“I’m very happy to be here”

After the match, Ter Stegen spoke about the difficult road he has traveled over the last few years and said he feels especially pleased to be competing with Germany again.

“I’m proud of my journey, of what I’ve been through in recent years. Now I’m very happy to be here and to work with the other guys every day.”

The goalkeeper has had to overcome different difficulties to feel important again, and now he is looking to make the most of every opportunity he gets with the national team.

Ter Stegen wants to be number 1

The German did not hide his ambition. His goal is to win back the starting spot and once again become Germany’s first choice.

“My goal is always to be number 1. I want to always be at 100% and up to the task, and today was a good moment to show that again.”

At the same time, he admitted that he still needs to adapt to the demands of the new coach and keep working to improve.

Klopp barely had three days to work

Ter Stegen also assessed the team’s overall performance in the first match of this new era.

Germany had only three days of training before the match, so the goalkeeper believes there is still plenty of room to correct details.

“We gave everything out there and we just fell short of winning. It’s a pity, but we can work with this. It’s a very good foundation.”

The feeling within the group is that the team responded well despite the limited preparation time.

Ter Stegen is still keeping an eye on Barcelona

Although he is now focused on his new chapter in Amsterdam, Ter Stegen also did not forget about Barcelona.

The goalkeeper praised the Blaugrana side’s start to the season and highlighted the work the team is doing under Hansi Flick.

“They’re unstoppable right now. That’s what I wish for them. They’re working hard with Hansi as coach. From a distance, I always wish them the very best.”

Ter Stegen made it clear that he is still paying attention to what is happening at the club, but his present is elsewhere.