Nagelsmann reveals ‘not pleasant’ conversation with Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has revealed he had an unpleasant conversation with Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen earlier this year.
The Barca stopper has made it clear he hasn’t enjoyed playing back-up to Manuel Neuer in the national set-up after becoming frustrated on the bench.
Ter Stegen has now taken over from the Bayern stopper, following his retirement, and Nagelsmann said he was worried at one point he might turn his back on the team.
“He is a very important player for us because he’s been playing for FC Barcelona for years, is the captain there and of course also brings quality to the goalkeeping game,” he told reporters.
“The conversation we had with him in March was not particularly pleasant. He acted politely, but he was unhappy. I was afraid that he would say he would not be not available at all. I could have understood it because he’s been number 2 for too long. I just hope he stays healthy.”
Ter Stegen now has the chance to make the No. 1 spot his own ahead of the next World Cup which will take place in Canada, Mexico and North America in 2026.
