Germany coach harsh towards Barcelona goalkeeper to start over Neuer: “No Discussion”

While Barcelona’s new manager Hansi Flick plans for his first season at the club and the squad dynamics that must change, the Catalan players are on international duty preparing for big tournaments ahead.

The Euro 2024 and the Copa America are due to begin in under a week and several Barcelona stars have been called up for the same. One such player who is currently preparing for the event ahead is Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Despite delivering strong performances for Julian Nagelsmann’s side in the previous international break against France and The Netherlands, the keeper played no part in the team’s latest preparatory friendly fixtures.

Needless to say, his exclusion raised several questions over the manager’s trust in the player.

No room for the Barcelona captain

Speaking to the media in a recent interview, German National Team manager Julian Nagelsmann made it clear that ter Stegen will not start ahead of Manuel Neuer at the tournament.

Marc-Andre Ter Stegen will not start for Germany ahead of Manuel Neuer. (Photo by UWE KRAFT/AFP via Getty Images)

“I don’t want to discuss the role of the goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer is and will be our starting goalkeeper. I will not let any discussion arise, even if everyone tries to start one,” he said, as revealed by Fabrizio Romano.

It is safe to say that the manager’s statement comes as a slap in the face of Ter Stegen, who in reality has been in decent form this season. Already 32 years of age, it is indeed unfortunate that he still struggled to find a place for his country on the field.

Future is now clear

While the veteran is unlikely to play a big part for Germany in the Euros, his future for next season now appears settled after much speculation.

Last month, there was a lot of noise around the shot-stopper’s future with many calling for a big change between the sticks. Interest from Saudi Arabia, moreover, tempted the Catalan offices into considering a sale.

With Hansi Flick coming in, it is likely that Ter Stegen will enjoy more support from within the Barcelona management. In any case, the club do not have the financial leeway required to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer.