Just in: Ter Stegen could return to Barcelona from Girona as injury sidelines him for two months | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s promising loan spell away from Barcelona has hit a serious setback. 

According to journalist Nil Sola on Carrusel Deportivo, the German goalkeeper has suffered a muscle injury during Girona’s match against Real Oviedo, and the initial medical assessments are worrying.

Early indications suggest Ter Stegen could be sidelined for close to two months. While further tests are still expected, the current outlook has immediately raised questions about the future of his loan spell. 

At this stage, all scenarios are being considered, including a possible early return to Barcelona if the recovery process becomes complicated.

A solid start at Barcelona

The timing of the injury is particularly cruel, given how positively Ter Stegen had started his stint at Girona.

 Since arriving on loan, the German wasted no time in making his presence felt. He made his debut against Getafe in a 1-1 draw and immediately sent a message that his quality remains intact.

While Getafe offered little threat for most of the match, forcing Ter Stegen into just one intervention during regular time, the defining moment came deep into stoppage time. 

Ter Stegen has picked up an injury. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

In the 97th minute, the goalkeeper produced a decisive save that proved vital. That intervention preserved the result and validated Vitor Reis’s dramatic 95th-minute equaliser, instantly boosting Ter Stegen’s standing within the squad.

That performance was enough to convince head coach Michel to make a call, as Ter Stegen was installed as Girona’s first-choice goalkeeper, pushing Paulo Gazzaniga to the bench. 

Everything in vain

For Ter Stegen, after a difficult period at Barcelona, where competition from Joan Garcia limited his opportunities, Girona represented a fresh start. 

The objective was to regain rhythm, confidence, and visibility ahead of his push to secure a place with Germany national team for the FIFA World Cup.

This injury, however, threatens to derail that plan. A two-month absence would significantly reduce his chances of maintaining momentum, especially at a stage where consistency and minutes are crucial. 

It also leaves Barcelona monitoring the situation closely, as any prolonged absence could alter plans at both clubs.