Barcelona finds themselves in a difficult position ahead of the Champions League knockout rounds, with UEFA regulations permitting only one of Marc-André ter Stegen or Wojciech Szczęsny to be registered. Head coach Hansi Flick must now make a crucial decision regarding his first-choice shot-stopper for the remainder of the European campaign.
Ter Stegen had begun the season as the club’s captain and primary goalkeeper in the competition but has been sidelined since sustaining a patella tendon injury in September. In his absence, Barcelona recruited Szczęsny, who came out of retirement and has since delivered consistently strong performances in goal. With Ter Stegen now back in training, Flick must decide whether to reinstate him or continue with the experienced Polish international.
UEFA regulations leave no room for both keepers
Although teams are not permitted to alter their squad lists for the competition beyond February, UEFA’s guidelines provide an exception for goalkeepers. The rules state that an injured or ill goalkeeper can be replaced, and upon regaining fitness, he may reclaim his position in the squad. However, this switch must be confirmed at least 24 hours before the next Champions League match in which the original goalkeeper is set to participate.
Barcelona had the opportunity to include Ter Stegen in their squad during the January transfer window but opted against it at the time. However, according to ESPN, they still retain the ability to make the change before their next fixture in the competition. This means that Flick must now weigh his options carefully, knowing that once he selects one of the two goalkeepers, the other will be entirely excluded from European action.
Ter Stegen ready; Flick keeps cards close to chest
Eager to make his return, Ter Stegen has expressed confidence in his fitness after a long rehabilitation period. Speaking on BILD’s podcast Phrasenmäher, the German goalkeeper emphasized his physical condition and eagerness to get back onto the pitch. “I’m back after six months, and I feel better than ever,” he stated. “I have great energy, and my body is handling the physical workload well. I don’t have a set return date, but when I’m ready, I’ll let the coach know.”
Despite the mounting anticipation, Flick remains cautious and has refrained from revealing his decision. When asked about the situation, the Barcelona boss remained vague. “We will take things step by step,” he commented. “Ter Stegen is progressing well, and we’re pleased with his recovery. We’ll see how things develop.”
This dilemma may not be confined to the Champions League alone. Reports indicate that Barcelona is preparing to offer Szczęsny a contract extension after his solid performances, signaling that the competition between the two goalkeepers could extend into next season. While Flick will have the flexibility to rotate them in La Liga, only one will be entrusted with Barcelona’s European ambitions in the coming weeks.
