Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen talked with DAZN and Kicker about his contractual situation, the return to training and competition.
Barcelona have made it clear that the German goalkeeper is one of the team’s few untouchables, and over the past few seasons he has shown that he is fundamental into the squad. His personality and adaptation off the pitch and in addition to his extraordinary performances on the pitch have made him loved by culers.
However, there has been much speculation regarding his contract renewal. Marc-André ter Stegen spoke during this interview about his situation with Barcelona and the renewal of his current contract, which ends in 2022.
“When we started the negotiations, the coronavirus issue came up and we felt that it was not the ideal situation to deal with these issues. The pandemic is something more important than football and we decided to postpone the negotiation,” he stated.
“I feel good and my family is happy here. It’s not like I’m out of contract this summer, either.”
Ter Stegen’s family grew recently as Marc-André became a father for the first time and together with his wife, they built their own house in Barcelona. “It’s not possible that I leave this summer,” ter Stegen said.
Football return
The German goalkeeper believes that the break benefited the team both physically and mentally.
“The break was not the ideal situation, but having been able to recharge the batteries can only help us. We have rarely been at such a good physical level. Mentally we will be much more focused on the games that remain.”
“We really want to return. In the league, we are in a good position, but Real Madrid will not give us anything. In the Champions League, we have chances to qualify for the next round and we want to take advantage of them.”
He also talked about his teammate and captain, Lionel Messi.
“He is a great footballer who can make a difference in every game. He is a legend of the sport. I am sure that opponents haven’t forgotten him and I don’t think they are very happy to have to face him again. ”
Games without supporters
Regarding the resumption of competition, ter Stegen speaks. LaLiga already has a date to return although with strict protocols and behind closed doors, a situation that he already underwent in the past at the Camp Nou.
“We already experienced that against Las Palmas at the Camp Nou. It’s something completely different. We like the support of the supporters because it is what makes football so great. Playing without our people isn’t so attractive, but the ball will still roll. “
