Barcelona captain’s loan move to Girona enters final stages; debut likely next week | OneFootball

According to SPORT, Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s departure to Girona on loan is increasingly close and everything points to the deal being completed this week.

All parties are progressing through the final stages of the agreement and understanding between them is total, meaning an official announcement should not be delayed.

Ter Stegen headed to Girona

Ter Stegen has fallen down the pecking order at Barcelona, becoming the third-choice goalkeeper behind Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny.

The Copa del Rey clash against Racing Santander last week made it clear that he would not be getting any minutes if he stayed, jeopardising his chances to be Germany’s No. 1 at the World Cup.

As such, the 33-year-old has given the green light to a move to Girona, having turned down a proposal from West Ham United in the Premier League.

Ter Stegen’s priority is to play regularly while also staying close to his children in Barcelona and a move to Girona helps him on both fronts.

On his way to Girona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Now, the deal is in the final stages and could be completed soon. In fact, as per the report, Girona have already sent invitations to the goalkeeper’s entourage to attend the match against Getafe at Montilivi next Monday, on 26 January.

Girona excited

Although it would be his first week with the team, the Girona coaching staff’s idea is for Ter Stegen to start immediately and make his debut in front of his new supporters.

The club believe that he can have an immediate impact in a position that has raised doubts throughout the season. For that reason, they want to accelerate his adaptation and give him responsibility from the outset.

The signing has created great excitement among Girona supporters. The arrival of a goalkeeper with Ter Stegen’s level is seen as a clear step up in quality and a statement of ambition at a particularly delicate moment.

This enthusiasm is shared above all by Girona manager Michel, who has spoken with the player on several occasions to explain the project and convey the importance he will have within the team.

Everything is therefore in place for the loan agreement to be finalised shortly and for Montilivi to host the Barcelona captain’s debut next week.