Time on the Clock: How Barcelona Minutes Could Shape Germany's World Cup 2026
25 December 2025
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Context for Ter Stegen's World Cup prospects
Marc-André ter Stegen's chances of guarding Germany's goal at the 2026 World Cup in the United States are shrinking, even though the circumstances once pointed to him becoming the first-choice keeper after Manuel Neuer's retirement. The backdrop remains tense as the machine-like team contends with a new generation of keepers aiming to steal the No. 1 jersey.
His absence from Barcelona's starting XI for the opening four months of the season due to a back operation has put his status in the frame under pressure, amid rising competition for the goalkeeper slot.
Barcelona's lineup and Germany's selection
Still, FC Barcelona coach Hans Flick says Juan García remains his first-choice for now, complicating Ter Stegen's position inside the Catalan club.
Germany's goalkeeper priorities
Earlier, Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann insisted that goalkeeping priority should be Ter Stegen, but only if he plays regularly for his club.
This stance was echoed by Rudi Voller, the national-team sporting director, in an interview with Kicker, stressing that the keeper's World Cup future hinges on the minutes he logs in the coming months.
Voller said: "It doesn't matter whether he stays at Barcelona or leaves; what matters is that he plays. If years under Neuer finally give him a chance to guard Germany at the World Cup, we will all be happy."
"Marc stays in regular contact with the national-team goalkeeping coach Andreas Kronenberger. The situation remains a bit open, with much depending on his current form. Sure, Oliver Baumann has been impressive, but Marc's option is still there and must be watched closely."
Injury, loan talk, and family considerations
Despite potential January loan offers, reports indicate Ter Stegen doesn't want to leave Barcelona, partly due to a custody battle, keeping him in the city close to his kids.
Punchline: If football were a courtroom, Ter Stegen would sue for more minutes—proceedings to the World Cup, Your Honor.
Punchline: Barca may guard the net, but Germany's World Cup hopes still need a few extra minutes of magic—overtime with a dash of drama and a splash of glory.
