Ter Stegen's Surprise Start: Flick's Quick Call Rewrites Barca's Goalkeeper Order

Key moment behind the scenes

Barcelona's 2-0 Copa del Rey victory featured an unexpected start for German keeper Marc-André ter Stegen, ending a run of more than four months on the bench.

According to RAC1, Flick had initially planned to start Wojciech Szczesny, preferring a different captain but changed his mind hours before kick-off.

The decisive chat between Flick and the two goalkeepers convinced him to give Ter Stegen a chance to prove his readiness and prove he can still play at the highest level.

What it means for Barca's goalkeeping plan

After the discussion, Flick and the staff decided to start Ter Stegen, a move seen as a potential boost if he considers a winter move and wants to stay sharp for the World Cup.

Insiders say starting Ter Stegen should not immediately alter the established order, with Juan Garcia as the starter and Szczesny as the backup.

Flick reportedly told Ter Stegen that he remains the third-choice keeper behind the starter, Juan Garcia, and the backup Szczesny, who is valued as both player and teammate.

Punchlines: If goalkeeper rotations were stand-up, that routine would never end. Also, Barca's GK puzzle might need a season pass for clarity.