Barcelona captain and first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is gradually moving closer to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery in late September.
The German shot-stopper, who picked up the injury during a La Liga fixture on Matchday 6 against Villarreal, has now started working with the group in training sessions.
This marks a major step forward in his recovery process, although the club and the player are choosing not to commit to a specific date for his return to competitive action.
Despite the long-term nature of his recovery, ter Stegen has remained involved with the club and is clearly motivated to get back on the pitch before the end of the season.
“The idea is to return this season. If I’m okay, I’ll obviously talk to the manager and we’ll see what’s best for everyone,” said the keeper.
“I have to finish recovering well, get into the team’s dynamic. And since it’s all about feelings, if I see it, I’ll talk to the coach.”
Speaking about team’s performance
Ter Stegen is not only concentrating on his own recovery but is also fully aware of Barcelona’s objectives across all competitions.
“We have shown that we are a great team; we have to focus on one game at a time.”
With the team performing well, the German goalkeeper is eager to contribute once again, especially as Barcelona face stronger challenges in the Champions League and aim to close the gap in La Liga.
“We have to keep up the good run and if we can do that, it will be easier. Now in the Champions League, we have some very difficult opponents and we have to be at our best to go through in the league.
“We know that anything can happen.”
About the future
At 32, ter Stegen knows he still has several years left in his career and is motivated to continue as a role model—both for the younger generation and for football fans who look up to him.
“I still have a few years left in my career. I want to be an example for a younger generation and for those who like football,” he added.
Having received the International Gentleman Award at the Circulo Ecuestre in Barcelona, he continues to show leadership off the pitch while working quietly but diligently to return to his best form.
There is no rush, but if progress continues at this rate, his presence between the posts may not be far away.
