Barcelona Goalkeeper Ter Stegen Faces Long Recovery After Knee Surgery

Barcelona's goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen suffered a complete rupture of his right knee tendon, necessitating surgery. The injury occurred during a match against Villarreal, marking a major setback just after being named Germany's first-choice goalkeeper. Ter Stegen's recovery will sideline him for an extended period.

Barcelona's star goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is set for a prolonged recovery period following surgery on a complete rupture of a tendon in his right knee, the club announced on Monday. The injury, which occurred during Barcelona's 5-1 triumph over Villarreal, has come as a significant blow just as Ter Stegen was solidifying his position as Germany's No. 1 goalkeeper after the retirement of Manuel Neuer.

The incident happened right before halftime when Ter Stegen awkwardly landed while attempting to catch a high cross, causing his right knee to buckle. Tests confirmed the severity of the injury, leading to an immediate decision for surgical intervention.

National team coach Julian Nagelsmann had recently affirmed Ter Stegen as the main goalkeeper following Neuer's exit after Euro 2024. Despite his limited playtime with only two Nations League appearances, Ter Stegen's setback leaves Germany relying on less experienced backups like Alexander Nübel and Oliver Baumann, neither of whom have played for the national team.

(With inputs from agencies.)