Marc-André Ter Stegen set to return to the pitch for FC Barcelona after a seven-month hiatus

FC Barcelona's stunning season so far couldn't have progressed had Wojciech Szczesny not laced up after the Catalan's former number one goal-keeper Marc-André Ter Stegen was ruled out for a year. Since, becoming the new number-one-choice goalkeeper, Szczesny has been an incredible goal guardian for the Catalans. 

However, in the upcoming Laliga fixture, the German is set to return in front of the goal as confirmed by manager Hansi Flick. Wojciech Szczesny will be rested for the same fixture.

Marc-André Ter Stegen to play his first fixture of 2025

Ter Stegen is poised to make his return for Barcelona, appearing for the first time in over seven months against Real Valladolid this weekend after recovering from a knee injury. In an unexpected turn of events, head coach Flick has changed his previous decision regarding Szczesny's starting position in the Champions League, thereby allowing Ter Stegen to regain his place ahead of the crucial semi-final second leg against Inter next week.

"I think it's also good for the goalkeepers to recover. It's good for Szczesny to rest, and Marc is on a good path, and his performances in training are fantastic. But I'm not thinking about changing anything else for the end of the season... but I could. I don't know. I live in the present and, for now, Marc plays tomorrow." Hansi Flick said.

Marc-André Ter Stegen suffered an excruciating tendon injury on his right knee in a Laliga fixture against Villarreal back in 2024. His surgery was successful and he had to be rested for an extended period of six months. In his absence, Inani Pena and Wojciech Szczesny took charge of goal-keeping duties. The latter even came out of his retirement to help the Catalans progress through the season.

Since making his inception for Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup this January, Szczesny has been involved in 27 fixtures across club competitions. He has maintained 50% clean sheets and delivered some heroic performances in the quarterfinal fixture against Benfica in UCL.

Marc-André Ter Stegen was even named in the squad that defeated Real Madrid in the finals of Copa Del Rey. His performance will be key to Barçelona's quest to win the Laliga this season. Barcelona need to win the remaining matches inorder to cement their Laliga crown.