In a major boost for FC Barcelona, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is expected to receive medical clearance and travel with the squad to Seville ahead of their much-anticipated Copa del Rey final against arch-rivals Real Madrid. The German shot-stopper has been sidelined for over seven months after suffering a significant knee injury in September 2024. His return to full training in recent days has been closely monitored, and now, all indications point to his inclusion in the matchday squad for Saturday's final at the Estadio de La Cartuja against spanish giants, Real Madrid.
While ter Stegen’s return to fitness is a welcome development, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has reportedly already made the decision to start Wojciech Szczęsny in goal for the final. Szczęsny, who joined the Catalan giants in January, has impressed in ter Stegen’s absence, earning the trust of Flick and playing a key role in guiding the team to the final. His consistent performances, including several standout displays in La Liga, Champions League and the Copa del Rey, have cemented his place as the temporary No. 1.
Nevertheless, ter Stegen’s presence on the bench adds considerable experience and depth to Barcelona’s squad. The 32-year-old remains one of the top goalkeepers in world football and has been a cornerstone of Barça’s defense for nearly a decade. Flick is likely to ease him back into competitive action through upcoming La Liga fixtures and UCL fixtures, allowing him to gradually regain match fitness ahead of the season's climax.
The Copa del Rey final, set to kick off at 8:00 PM local time on Saturday, April 26, promises to be a high-stakes encounter. With both Barcelona and Real Madrid battling for domestic supremacy, the return of key players like ter Stegen could make a vital difference—not only in this match but also in the broader title race.
Barcelona fans will be thrilled at the sight of their long-serving goalkeeper back in action, even if only on the sidelines for now. His comeback symbolizes resilience and adds a morale boost to a squad aiming for silverware in Flick's debut season.
As the football world gears up for another El Clásico showdown, all eyes will be on Seville—and the Barcelona bench, where one of their most trusted warriors might finally make his long-awaited return.
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