The timing of this injury is particularly cruel for Ter Stegen, whose future at the club was already the subject of intense speculation. Having made over 400 appearances for the Blaugrana, the German has seen his status diminish rapidly over the last 18 months due to a combination of fitness struggles and the emergence of new talent.
He missed the majority of last season with a serious knee injury and was unavailable for the start of the current campaign following back surgery. In his absence, the club invested heavily in the position, signing Joan Garcia from Espanyol, sparking a furious reaction from the German and a summer-long feud between the goalkeeper and Barca. Flick has been unequivocal in his selection policy, repeatedly stating that Garcia is now his first choice. Consequently, Ter Stegen has been restricted to just a single appearance since returning to fitness in December - a Copa del Rey victory over Guadalajara.
Reports indicate that the club were open to facilitating a departure for the veteran in the current January window. Ter Stegen is desperate for regular first-team football to secure his place in the Germany squad for the upcoming World Cup this summer. However, this fresh setback threatens to derail any potential exit.
The severity of the injury is currently unknown nor is it clear if it is linked to the knee surgery he had last year. However, any length of time out would likely scupper a move away this month, as passing a medical at a new club would become impossible.