Barcelona captain still undecided on surgery despite conservative treatment not working | OneFootball

According to an update from Mundo Deportivo, Marc-Andre ter Stegen is still struggling with persistent back problems.

Despite that, the German goalkeeper has not yet decided whether he will undergo surgery, as the conservative treatment he is currently following has failed to deliver the results the club had hoped for.

It must be noted that Ter Stegen has been ruled out of Barcelona’s pre-season tour. He has not trained with the squad since July 14, when the team began preparations for the new season.

The discomfort in his back continues to affect him, and no clear solution has been agreed upon. Surgery remains an option, but for now, the veteran goalkeeper is taking time to consider his next move.

Goalkeeping plans at Barcelona

In the meantime, Flick has already communicated his plans for the 2025/26 season that the first team’s goalkeeping duties will be shared by Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny.

Marc-Andre ter is yet to make a decision. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

This decision confirms the new hierarchy in goal, with Ter Stegen set to fall behind in the pecking order if he continues to struggle with fitness.

This situation also has implications for his international career. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the German international will need regular playing time to secure his place in the national team squad.

If he opts for surgery now, he could be sidelined for up to four months, further complicating his chances of making the tournament.

From the club perspective, surgery would also ease some of Barcelona’s financial pressures.

If Ter Stegen is ruled out long-term, La Liga financial fair play rules would allow Barça to free up 80% of his salary, giving the club extra breathing room in their wage structure. This way, they can also register new signings with ease.