Goalkeeper could have lined up as Germany’s No 1 but his repeated injuries have allowed Oliver Baumann to step into the role
Marc-Andre ter Stegen has admitted his hopes of playing for Germany at the World Cup are now “very slim” following his latest injury setback.
The 33-year-old goalkeeper suffered a serious left thigh muscle injury during a short loan spell at Girona, where he made just two appearances before requiring surgery.
The injury adds to an already difficult season, having been largely unavailable for Barcelona due to back problems, with his only appearance coming in the Copa del Rey.
Ter Stegen had been expected to line up as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper under Julian Nagelsmann, but his repeated injuries have allowed Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann to step into the role.
The goalkeeper told Catalan broadcaster TV3 that his recovery is progressing “well” and he is “living a normal life. I feel fine and I can move more easily.” However, he acknowledged the challenge of returning in time for the 2026 tournament in the US, Mexico and Canada.
“At the moment, I’m a long way from that,” said Ter Stegen. “We have to do everything we can to protect my health.”
“I won’t push myself; health comes first. The desire to play in the World Cup is special, but at the end of the season we’ll assess whether it’s realistic. Recovering from injuries like this usually takes time.”
