The famous Barca star has requested to leave the club in January.

Marc-André ter Stegen is contemplating leaving Barcelona in January 2026, as his status at Camp Nou has seriously declined and he aims to rejoin the German national squad before the 2026 World Cup.

Marc-André ter Stegen is seriously thinking about parting ways with Barcelona during the January transfer window after realizing that his position in the team is gradually coming to an end. At 33 years old, the German goalkeeper wants to regain playing time and secure a spot back in the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, according to sources from Fútbol Fantasy.

With Barcelona having recruited new goalkeepers and Ter Stegen’s contract valid until 2028, it is highly likely the Catalan club will agree to let him leave on loan or a permanent deal, especially now that he is cleared to play again following his back injury.

Ter Stegen’s situation at Barcelona has deteriorated markedly. His role has been questioned since Joan García was promoted as the starting goalkeeper and Wojciech Szczesny extended his contract until 2027, leaving the German keeper with almost no chance to start.

Barcelona’s management understands that Ter Stegen is no longer part of the club’s sporting plans and is ready to facilitate his departure to reduce the wage bill and free up a squad spot. Although still under contract, Ter Stegen’s future depends on getting regular playing time, which currently seems unlikely.

Ter Stegen himself has admitted that once he completes his recovery expected in January, he will request to leave in search of more playing opportunities. The goalkeeper has spent nearly a year treating a back injury and has yet to return in any significant matches.

For him, the top priority is not only playing but also getting back on the German national team’s radar, where they hope to see him compete for the starting spot. Under these circumstances, a mid-season loan deal is seen as the ideal choice.

Barcelona is also open to letting Ter Stegen go and has started exploring options to ensure a smooth departure. The club needs to optimize its roster, especially in the goalkeeper position, where they have more trusted alternatives.

Although Ter Stegen’s contract runs until 2028, Barcelona’s leadership recognizes that allowing him to leave benefits both their sporting strategy and finances. They acknowledge that the current project no longer includes him and that an amicable exit is best for both parties.

For Ter Stegen, the upcoming winter transfer window represents a major turning point in his career. He must decide whether to stay with Barcelona as a backup or leave to restart his top-level playing journey.

Several clubs outside Spain have shown interest, presenting a real opportunity for the German goalkeeper. If he chooses to leave on loan or a permanent transfer, Ter Stegen will have the chance to prove he still has the quality to participate in the World Cup. Barcelona has confirmed the door is open, provided the deal is managed properly both sportingly and financially.

Marc-André ter Stegen’s final decision will likely close a chapter at Camp Nou and open a new one in his career. If he wants to regain his status and international influence, January is the most suitable time to act. Meanwhile, Barcelona is prepared for this inevitable transition.

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