Barcelona’s Ter Stegen Back to Full Fitness, But Szczesny Expected to Retain Starting Position

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is set to make his comeback in Saturday’s LaLiga encounter against Real Valladolid, marking the end of a seven-month recovery following knee surgery, as confirmed by coach Hansi Flick.

The 33-year-old experienced a complete rupture of a tendon below his right kneecap in September and underwent surgery shortly thereafter. During his absence, Barca enlisted Polish keeper Wojciech Szczesny, who came out of retirement in October to join as a free agent.

Ter Stegen’s return is a significant boost for Barcelona, who currently sit atop LaLiga with 76 points, holding a four-point lead over last season’s champions, Real Madrid, with only five matches left, including a crucial Clasico at home after the trip to Valladolid.

“He’s doing well, Marc ter Stegen will be back tomorrow,” Flick informed reporters on Friday, beaming with joy. “It’ll also benefit Szczesny to have some time to rest. Marc has been training excellently and is prepared to play at this level.”

When asked whether Ter Stegen would remain in goal for the remaining fixtures, Flick replied: “I’m not considering any changes until the end of the season. However, things could shift; we’ll see what unfolds after Valladolid.”

Barcelona have less than 72 hours to recuperate before their match on Saturday, which appears manageable on paper, given that bottom-placed Valladolid was relegated from LaLiga last week.

Flick’s side convincingly defeated Valladolid 7-0 back in August, and they now face a team that has notched up only four wins this season and possesses the league’s worst defensive record, having conceded 81 goals over 33 matches.

“The team’s attitude needs to mirror that of Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan,” Flick stated, referring to the exciting 3-3 draw in the semi-final home leg ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture.

“It doesn’t matter where Valladolid will be playing next season; they are currently competing in LaLiga, and we must show them respect. You can lose the title in matches like these.”

“Earlier in the season, losses to Leganes and Las Palmas held us back, and the team understands how vital this match is.”