Earlier this month, Ter Stegen finally returned to the pitch after a long injury lay-off as he featured in Flick's starting lineup in a Copa del Rey clash against Guadalajara, which Barcelona won 2-0.
Flick was left impressed by the experienced goalkeeper, who kept a clean sheet, as the German coach said after the match: "Marc is the captain and has played many games in the 12 years he has been here. We talked with the rest of the coaches and we wanted to give him the opportunity to play. He is back, it is only for this match and I think it is a good next step."
The manager was keen to emphasise that Ter Stegen’s inclusion was a reward for his hard work behind the scenes during his recovery. Having spent months watching from the stands or the bench while Garcia cemented his place as the new first-choice, Ter Stegen’s professionalism required acknowledgement. "He is the team captain," Flick reiterated. "He had the opportunity to return and he took it. He has given a lot to the club and must be respected."