Ter Stegen breaks silence after Barcelona loan exit: ‘Good things take time’ | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has officially begun a new chapter in his career after completing a season-long loan move from FC Barcelona to Ajax.

The German goalkeeper, who will remain in Amsterdam until June 30, 2027, spoke publicly for the first time since leaving the Catalan club, expressing his excitement for the challenge ahead while delivering a clear message about his physical condition.

The deal took time, but worth it says Ter Stegen

Following the announcement of his arrival, Ter Stegen admitted that negotiations took longer than expected but was delighted to finally complete the move.

“Good things take time. In the end everything worked out well, and I’m happy to be here,” he said, as quoted by SPORT.

The deal was delayed by several issues, including tax-related matters and negotiations over how his salary would be divided between Barcelona and Ajax. Ultimately, the breakthrough arrived last weekend and the deal completed today.

Ter Stegen is now an Ajax player. (Photo courtesy: Ajax official website)

The 34-year-old explained that conversations with Ajax’s leadership quickly convinced him the move was the right one.

“When I first spoke with Jordi Cruyff, I immediately felt it was the right option. I know the coach, and I also know Daley Blind. I spoke with them about the project, and they were very convincing.”

Ter Stegen reunites with head coach Michel, who also managed him during his loan spell at Girona last season.

Update on fitness

One of the biggest questions surrounding Ter Stegen’s arrival was his fitness after an injury-plagued campaign.

The German made it clear he is fully recovered and ready to return to regular football.

“At Barcelona I started a little later than Ajax, but I’ve been training since July 2. I’m fully fit and very happy to enjoy being on the pitch and playing without any problems,” he confirmed.

The comments serve as a strong statement after a difficult year in which a hamstring injury restricted him to just two appearances during his loan spell at Girona.

A new chapter for Ter Stegen. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Ter Stegen also outlined Ajax’s ambitions for the coming season, saying:

“We want to take Ajax back to the top. It’s a club with enormous history and great international prestige. I’m confident it’s going to be a good season.”

On Frenkie de Jong

During the interview, former teammate Frenkie de Jong appeared in a welcome video for the goalkeeper.

Ter Stegen responded with a smile, saying: “He’s my agent! Frenkie knows Amsterdam very well. He’s always honest, and his words gave me a lot of peace of mind. It’s good to know I’m in good hands.”

Ready for a fresh start

After losing his place at Barcelona and enduring two seasons interrupted by injuries, Ter Stegen sees Ajax as the perfect opportunity to rebuild his career.

He ended his first interview by expressing his excitement about playing at the Johan Cruyff Arena as the home goalkeeper.

“It was always a special feeling coming to play in this stadium. I always thought it was beautiful. Now I’m very happy to call the Johan Cruyff Arena my home.”