Marc-Andre ter Stegen continues to take steps towards a full recovery from his back injury. The Barcelona captain has been out since the summer, having had to undergo surgery to address a troublesome back injury.
Initial estimates suggested that he might not be able to return until 2026, but things seem to be moving along well for the German goalkeeper.
Ter Stegen will resume training soon
As per Mundo Deportivo, Ter Stegen is training on the pitch at the Ciutat Esportiva, separate from the group, but is attempting to accelerate his return because the timelines require it.
The expectation is that the German goalkeeper will be able to rejoin team training at the end of November or the beginning of December and receive medical clearance before the end of the year.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, FC Barcelona player
Pushing for a return. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
After completing the initial phase of his recovery at home, the 33-year-old veteran has been attending Hansi Flick’s sessions for several days to work on the pitch, although still apart from the squad and his fellow goalkeepers.
Ter Stegen, for his part, wants to be available as soon as possible, thinking about his professional future. Club sources indicate that he is on the right path.
Although he has already let the club know that his intention is to fight for the starting position in Barça’s goal, Ter Stegen is aware that he will not be Flick’s first option. As such, a departure would be more than feasible.
Ter Stegen’s objective is to recover match rhythm, which is why he is pressing to return.
Reports from Turkey suggest that several clubs have made approaches for him to play there for the second half of the season. However, for the moment, there is nothing concrete at the club.