Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a complete rupture of a tendon in his right knee. The injury requires surgery, casting doubt over his availability for the national team.
Barcelona has been dealt a significant blow with the news that goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen will miss an extended period due to a knee injury. The German custodian sustained a complete rupture of a tendon in his right knee during Sunday's 5-1 La Liga victory over Villarreal.
Ter Stegen was forced to leave the field on a stretcher after landing awkwardly while attempting to collect a high cross just before halftime. Subsequent tests confirmed the severity of the injury, prompting Barcelona to schedule surgery for Monday.
The injury is a major setback for both club and country. Ter Stegen has been an integral part of Barcelona's success in recent years, making over 200 appearances for the Catalan giants. His absence will leave a significant void in the team's defense.
The injury also casts doubt over Ter Stegen's availability for the German national team. The 30-year-old had recently been confirmed as Germany's No. 1 goalkeeper, replacing the retiring Manuel Neuer. However, with the FIFA World Cup just months away, Ter Stegen's participation in the tournament is now in jeopardy.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed his disappointment at the news of Ter Stegen's injury. "The news of Marc's injury was a big shock for us," Nagelsmann said. "We in the national team are going to miss him on and off the field. We wish Marc all the best for the operation and a quick recovery. We'll always be there for him on his way back."
In Ter Stegen's absence, Alexander Nübel of Stuttgart and Oliver Baumann of Hoffenheim are likely to vie for the starting goalkeeper role for Germany. However, neither player has earned a cap for their country, making Ter Stegen's loss even more significant.
The recovery time for a complete knee tendon rupture can vary depending on the severity of the injury. However, it is typically in the range of six to nine months. This means that Ter Stegen could miss a significant portion of the 2022/23 season for Barcelona, as well as the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Ter Stegen's injury is a major setback for both club and country. His absence will be keenly felt, and his recovery will be closely monitored in the coming months.
