Barcelona's coaching staff received a painful blow just hours before the start of the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, as the Catalan club officially announced that their veteran German goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, had left the team's training camp currently being held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, due to injury.
Details of the official statement and the young alternative
In an official statement published on its digital platforms, the club confirmed that the German goalkeeper will miss Wednesday's match against Athletic Bilbao. The statement read: "Marc-André ter Stegen is leaving the team's training camp in Jeddah and returning to Barcelona for further medical tests. He will be replaced by young goalkeeper Diego Cuschen, from the reserve team, who will join the squad in Saudi Arabia immediately.".
According to the Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, which is close to the walls of the Catalan club, the injury that Ter Stegen suffered during the last training session in Jeddah did not seem serious at first glance, but it was enough to prevent him from completing the training session, which prompted a precautionary decision to return him to Spain to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation under the supervision of the club’s main medical staff.
The Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia: A global event
This injury comes at a particularly sensitive time, as Saudi Arabia is hosting the Spanish Super Cup as part of a long-term strategic partnership with the Spanish Football Federation. This tournament is of paramount importance not only for its financial value but also because it is the first title up for grabs this season, placing significant pressure on participating clubs to win the trophy. The city of Jeddah, with its iconic King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (The Shining Jewel), is the ideal venue for these major matches, which attract a massive local and international following.
History of injuries and challenges of returning
The current injury cannot be separated from the German goalkeeper's medical history. Ter Stegen had only received medical clearance to return to action last December, following a lengthy absence of more than four months after undergoing delicate back surgery. Back injuries are among the most complex for goalkeepers due to their constant need for flexibility and jumping, making even the slightest discomfort a cause for concern.
Changes in the technical hierarchy under Flick's leadership
On a technical level, this setback further complicates Ter Stegen's situation within the team. According to reports, the German goalkeeper's chances of securing a regular starting position under coach Hansi Flick have diminished, with sources indicating he has dropped to third in the goalkeeping pedigree – a dramatic reversal for a goalkeeper who for years was considered a cornerstone of the Blaugrana's lineup. His absence now could open the door wide for competitors and young talents like Diego Cuenc to prove their worth in one of the most important competitions.
