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When it comes to Marc-André ter Stegen’s future at FC Barcelona, there's no doubt, at least from the German keeper himself. He signed a contract extension in August 2023 keeping him until 2028, and he’s sticking to his guns even after recovering from surgery this summer to fix his recurring back issues. Although he had a tug-of-war with the club over the recovery timeline—and he lost that fight.

Ter Stegen wants to stay at Barça. This is despite the fact that coach Flick has definitively named Javi García as the starting keeper, and given García's current form, that decision is unlikely to change. These firm statements sparked debate about the German keeper's future as the transfer window approaches, but it hasn't changed Ter Stegen's plans.

Ter Stegen wants to stay and compete for playing time at Barça. Even though the German Football Association requires him to play in high-level matches to keep his chances of being the starting World Cup keeper alive, he doesn't view the situation at Camp Nou as completely closed off, contrary to what Flick's statements might suggest.

According to SPORT, quoting sources close to the player, Ter Stegen hasn't given up on the possibility of reclaiming the goal this season. He knows better than anyone that situations can change overnight. While he certainly doesn't wish for it, he believes that if an injury problem like the one Javi García suffered in September (which kept him out for about a month and a half) occurs, he might get the starting spot back ahead of Szczęsny, provided the decision is based purely on performance.

Potential Transfer Scenarios. Beyond performance issues, the club's stance is a major variable. Ter Stegen earns a high salary, roughly €20 million gross per season, with about €10 million of that attributed to the second half of the season. Getting this salary off the books would be hugely positive for Financial Fair Play. Therefore, the Copa del Rey match against Guadalajara could be a clue as to whether the club is using the German keeper's benching as leverage to push him out.

If he doesn't get playing time for sporting reasons, and the club strongly encourages a move, Ter Stegen is willing to listen to offers. However, the player won't make the first move. He won't request a transfer himself or ask the club to find him a new destination. Even if it reduces his chances of starting for Germany in the World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico, he will only consider an offer if it comes and the project is convincing. Furthermore, he absolutely refuses to move to a league that doesn't match his status and competitive level.

However, all the scenarios mentioned above are currently just 'hypothetical.' What is clear is that Ter Stegen wants to stay at Barça, is not considering a January transfer, and firmly believes that his chance will come this season. His top priority is Barcelona, not just for sporting reasons but also for family considerations. Ter Stegen is clear about his future

다만, 앞서 언급한 모든 시나리오는 아직까지는 '가설'에 불과하다. 분명한 것은 테어슈테겐이 바르사에 남기를 원하고, 1월 이적은 고려하지 않으며, 이번 시즌 자신에게 기회가 올 것이라고 굳게 믿고 있다는 점. 그의 최우선 순위는 스포츠적 측면뿐 아니라 가족적 이유까지 포함해 바르셀로나에 있다. Ter Stegen tiene claro su futuro