Marc-Andre ter Stegen (foto: Getty Images)
Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen returns to training after a serious knee injury, with Hansi Flick confirming his recovery is on track ahead of the clash with Sevilla.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen has taken a significant step in his recovery process, returning to training several months after suffering a complete rupture of the patellar tendon in his right knee. The Barcelona goalkeeper underwent surgery in September following an injury sustained during the club’s 5-1 win over Villarreal in LaLiga.
Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Sevilla, manager Hansi Flick provided a positive update on the German shot-stopper's condition. “It’s a private matter being discussed with the doctors, but he’s started training, and that’s the first step. He’s improved a lot. We’re happy, and everything is on track,” said Flick.
Szczesny signed as cover during Ter Stegen’s absence
In October, Barcelona moved quickly to reinforce their goalkeeping options by signing former Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny as a free agent. The 34-year-old had initially announced his retirement but reversed his decision following Ter Stegen's injury. Szczesny has since provided valuable experience between the posts, but Ter Stegen's return will be a welcome boost as Barcelona aims to maintain their title challenge.
Barça aims for third consecutive LaLiga win
Barcelona currently sits in third place in LaLiga with 45 points, trailing leaders Real Madrid by four points. Flick's side will be looking for their third consecutive league win when they face 12th-placed Sevilla at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium on Sunday. Despite Sevilla's mid-table position, Flick anticipates a tough challenge. “You start every game from scratch. The atmosphere at the stadium is fantastic. We have to play our style, and that’s the most important thing,” he stated.
Barcelona is coming off a 5-0 victory over Valencia in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals on Thursday, a performance that showcased their recent improvement. “The whole team is playing very well now. In the last few games, they’ve shown that and created many chances,” Flick added.
Flick to watch Madrid derby but remains focused on Barça
When asked if he would be watching the highly anticipated Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, Flick responded: “First, I’ll watch Barça B, then we’ll have dinner, and after that, I’ll watch the game. But our focus is on us. The game is interesting because it’s one of the best in Europe, and I want to see it.”
Injury updates: Gavi, Dani Olmo, and Iñigo Martínez available
Flick also provided positive news on the injury front, confirming that midfielders Gavi and Dani Olmo, as well as defender Iñigo Martínez, are fit and ready to play.