Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen may miss the remainder of the season following knee surgery for a tendon rupture. The 32-year-old German international was injured during a 5-1 La Liga victory over Villarreal on Sunday, where he fell awkwardly and had to be carried off on a stretcher.
Barcelona confirmed that ter Stegen suffered a complete rupture of the patella tendon in his right knee and successfully underwent surgery. Spanish reports indicate he could be out for around eight months, making a return this season unlikely.
Ter Stegen faced criticism after a mistake in Barcelona’s 2-1 Champions League defeat to Monaco on Thursday. Coach Hansi Flick commented on the severity of the injury, noting it was evident when ter Stegen was on the field.
Inaki Pena replaced ter Stegen during the match and is expected to take over his responsibilities, although Barcelona may consider signing a replacement. Flick emphasized that his immediate concern is ter Stegen’s health, stating he doesn’t wish to discuss potential signings right now.
Pena, 25, previously made 12 La Liga appearances for Barcelona last season while ter Stegen was recovering from a back injury. Ter Stegen also represented Germany in two Nations League matches in September following the retirement of veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.