Marc-André Ter Stegen is considering a huge decision which could have a major impact on his future

A massive decision lies up ahead for Ter Stegen amidst his uncertain future. (Image credits - FMT, License Details)

FC Barcelona's long-serving goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, is planning on making a huge decision, which can have major implications on his unsure future with the La Liga champions, with the new season knocking at the door.

The 33-year-old German shot-stopper has internally been informed that he will have to fight for a place back in the starting XI, as he currently stands as Hansi Flick’s third-choice goalkeeper, behind new signing Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny, which is why Ter Stegen has been advised to seek a fresh challenge.

Spanish outlet Jijantes has revealed that the 33-year-old is now considering undergoing a second surgical procedure for his persisting back issue in the coming months, as the issue has already kept the legendary keeper out of action for a significant amount of time.

Ter Stegen's crucial decision amidst the uncertainty surrounding his future

At the moment, Ter Stegen has been restrained within gym-based rehabilitation, which has cast a huge shadow of doubt regarding him finding his form and returning back to his best.

However, the doctors have warned the German international that the surgery might keep him sidelined for at least four months, which could allow Barcelona to activate their "long-term injury clause", which allows them to temporarily remove sidelined players from their official squad list.

As a consequence, this can free up some space in this bloated Barca squad, which could help the Catalan giants to easily register their new signings, including Joan Garcia, who is coming in as a replacement for the ageing Ter Stegen.

Amidst this uncertainty, Premier League giants Manchester City had reportedly considered making a move for the 33-year-old this summer, as their current shot-stopper Ederson could depart in the current transfer window.

 However, things can quickly change if Ter Stegen decides to proceed with a surgical procedure, as no club would want to sign a player who will be out of action for many months.

Another major problem that also lies ahead for Ter Stegen is regarding his position in the German national team as their current number one.

With the 2026 World Cup scheduled to begin in just 327 days now, the goalkeeper’s inactivity due to a major surgery could hurt Die Mannschaft and force the head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, to prefer Oliver Baumann or Stefan Ortega over him.

Whereas for Barcelona, his recent fitness issues, high salary, and low influence on the pitch now are becoming increasingly difficult to overlook, and with the arrival of Joan Garcia as well, such a significant amount of time away from action would most likely end the veteran goalkeeper's chapter with the La Liga champions.