Barcelona boss Hansi Flick explains decision to start Ter Stegen in Copa del Rey tie | OneFootball

FC Barcelona began their Copa del Rey 2025/26 campaign with a Round of 32 clash away to Primera Federación side CD Guadalajara last night. The Blaugrana eventually secured a 2-0 victory, with goals from Andreas Christensen and Marcus Rashford sealing qualification for the next round.

Given the difference in division and Barcelona’s strong recent form, it was widely expected that Hansi Flick would rotate his squad and hand minutes to several fringe players. The German coach did make numerous changes to his usual lineup, offering opportunities to youngsters and squad players, but the game proved more complicated than anticipated.

Barcelona struggled to break down a well-organised Guadalajara side in the first half and went into the interval goalless. With the match still finely balanced after the restart, Flick was forced to call upon several regular starters, including Pedri, Alejandro Balde, and Pau Cubarsí, to tilt the contest in his team’s favour.

One of the most talked about decisions on the night was in goal, where Marc-Andre ter Stegen was handed a rare start. Joan Garcia was rested, allowing the German goalkeeper to return to the lineup after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Speaking after the match, as highlighted by SPORT, Flick explained that Ter Stegen’s inclusion was a one-off decision:

“For me, Marc is the captain. It was a good opportunity for him; he has given a lot to the club. We spoke with the coaching staff and decided that he would play. Just for this match.”

Ter Stegen marked his return with a clean sheet, even if the opposition was from a lower division. Flick also highlighted the importance of attitude and mentality in such fixtures, admitting that Copa del Rey ties are rarely straightforward.

Barcelona now move into the next round of the competition, which Flick described as the primary objective on the night, as the club continues to navigate the situation of Marc-Andre ter Stegen with clarity expected in the coming weeks.