Injured Barcelona superstar’s absence has impacted team greatly, says Real Madrid legend
After a series of disappointing results, Barcelona were able to get back to winning form when they secured a 1-0 victory over CA Osasuna this midweek.
But that does not hide the fact that Barcelona are in tatters right now, following its exit from the Copa Del Rey, coupled with Real Madrid’s 10-point advantage at the top of the table.
Talking about Barcelona’s poor form, former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has highlighted the absence of one particular Barcelona player.
Casillas points out ter Stegen’s absence
The player in question is Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Casillas believes the German’s absence has cost Barcelona dearly this season.
“Ter Stegen’s loss is remarkable at Barça. He is a very decisive player in the team,” Casillas said about the German goalkeeper, during a Twitch session with Gerard Romero.
Ter Stegen has indeed been a key player for Barcelona over the years. Especially under the leadership of Xavi Hernandez, the former Gladbach starlet has upped his game.
The German international was one of La Liga’s best goalkeepers last season when he helped Barcelona secure the league title.
However, ter Stegen’s progress was halted by a back injury in November. The knock did not seem serious at first, but it later required surgery. As a result, the goalkeeper has since missed 17 matches for Barcelona.
No confidence on Inaki Pena?
While noting that ter Stegen’s absence has impacted Barcelona, Casillas did not fail to acknowledge Inaki Pena.
“This does not mean that there is no confidence in Iñaki Peña, who has also had outstanding matches,” said the former Real Madrid goalkeeper.
Pena certainly had a strong start to his spell as Barcelona’s temporary number one. But his form has faded as the season progressed, causing dissatisfaction within the board.
Ter Stegen, meanwhile, is looking to return to full fitness later this month and is more than likely to feature against Napoli in the Champions League.
