Ter Stegen speaks out after Girona loan move – “The decision to come here was quite easy” | OneFootball

After months of speculation surrounding his future at Barcelona, Marc-Andre ter Stegen is finally a Girona player, albeit on loan from Barça.

The goalkeeper has joined the Catalan club on a short-term loan deal until the end of the season, in an attempt to find regular game-time and remain in contention for a place in the German national team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Marc-Ander’s first interview at Girona

After joining Girona, ter Stegen has recently given his first interview for the club (h/t Mundo Deportivo), where he spoke about how he wants to take up a leadership role within the team and help them reach their objectives.

“It’s been wonderful, and the way I’ve been welcomed here in the dressing room, along with the manager, is something truly special,” he said.

Ter Stegen was one of Barcelona’s four captains, despite his limited role in the team. At Girona, he also wants to take up a leadership role.

“I always want to be a leader in the locker room and someone they can trust. I want to help the team, which I believe is the most important thing,” he said.

The German international went on to explain why he made the decision to join Girona of all clubs, citing the club’s culture and tradition.

Gearing up for a new chapter in his career. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

“I chose this club because of the way they play,” he said. “If you’re clear about how you want to attack and how you want to defend, things eventually work out, and we’ve seen that in the last three matches.”

“I want to contribute and give my best to celebrate many victories with this club,” he added. “If I go to a club, it’s to compete at the highest level against everyone and always win.”

Despite playing for Barcelona and competing for silverware for over a decade, ter Stegen said he has experience of being in a different situation as well, citing his previous spell at Borussia Monchengladbach.

“I’ve experienced very different situations in football, from almost drowning to being at the top of the table,” he recalled. “It makes it easier for me to be prepared for anything, and that’s what I want to show.”

A key factor that helped Girona acquire the services of Ter Stegen was head coach Michel. Talking about the role the Girona coach played, he revealed his gratitude.

“I’m very grateful for his interest, both personally and professionally. It’s immediately clear he lives and breathes football and wants to find solutions for everything. The decision to come here was quite easy,” he said.

Finally, ter Stegen had a message for the fans.

“I can tell people are excited, and that makes me happy. I’m very happy,” he concluded.