‘It’s been an honour’: Barcelona captain Ter Stegen’s heartfelt message to Girona after relegation | OneFootball

FC Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s loan spell at Girona ended in heartbreak, with the German goalkeeper watching on as the club he had joined to rebuild his career were relegated to the Segunda Division.

Ter Stegen had arrived at Girona in January 2026, hoping to rediscover his form, earn regular minutes and build fitness ahead of the World Cup.

Instead, he managed just two appearances before suffering another injury that ruled him out for the remainder of the season and ultimately cost him a place in Germany’s World Cup squad.

Ter Stegen’s farewell message

Three days after the season ended, the goalkeeper took to social media to say a heartfelt goodbye to the Girona supporters.

“Girona, thank you so much for these months. Although my time on the pitch was much shorter than we all would have liked, with only two matches after my arrival in January and then having to sit out the rest of the season, I am very grateful for how you welcomed me from day one.”

“It has been an honour to be part of this family, to share a locker room with this group, and to feel the affection of the club’s staff and the incredible fans,” he said.

Ter Stegen went on to show his confidence in Girona and their ability to return to the top flight.

“The ending wasn’t what we wanted, but I’m convinced that this club has the strength, the identity, and the people to return very soon to where it belongs: the top flight.

“Thank you to all the fans for your support and affection. I sincerely wish you all the best for the future. Sempre Girona,” he concluded.

What it means for his Barcelona future

Girona’s relegation has immediately closed off one potential exit route for Ter Stegen, who holds a contract with Barcelona until June 2028.

Ter Stegen will return to Barcelona this summer. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The German was linked with a move to Ajax lately, but it was later reported that the Dutch giants are not interested in making a move for the injury-prone goalkeeper.

With Joan Garcia firmly established as the undisputed number one, sporting director Deco now faces the challenge of finding a solution for a goalkeeper on one of the squad’s highest salaries and with a limited market due to his recent injury history.