Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is set to miss up to three months of action after opting to undergo back surgery.
The 33-year-old German shot-stopper, who has been battling discomfort despite feeling physically fit, announced the decision on Instagram after consultations with Barcelona’s medical team and external specialists.
“Today is a personally difficult day for me,” Ter Stegen wrote. “Physically and athletically, I feel in very good shape, although unfortunately, I am not free from pain. After intensive discussions… the quickest and safest way for me to fully recover is through back surgery.”
He added that his previous recovery from a similar operation took 66 days, but doctors now recommend a longer, three-month rehabilitation period to avoid complications.
Barcelona, who signed Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer, are expected to make him their first-choice goalkeeper in Ter Stegen’s absence, with Wojciech Szczesny serving as backup.
Spanish media have speculated the club may consider offloading Ter Stegen to free up space for new signings such as Garcia and Marcus Rashford.
“Emotionally, it hurts a lot not being able to support the team during this time. Fortunately, the rehabilitation is manageable and the road back is clear,” Ter Stegen said. “Don’t worry, I’ll be back.”
