Marc-Andre ter Stegen Completes Girona Loan, Aims to Reignite World Cup Hopes
BARCELONA, 28 January 2026 – German international goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has embarked on a new chapter in Spain, completing a loan move from FC Barcelona to fellow La Liga side Girona. The transfer, confirmed last week, marks a significant shift for the long-serving Barcelona captain, who made his debut for his new club in a 1-1 draw against Getafe on 27 January.
An Emotional Departure from Barcelona
After over a decade as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper, ter Stegen’s move comes after losing his starting position to new signing Joan Garcia. The 33-year-old admitted the departure was emotionally difficult, even on a temporary six-month loan. “They opted for Joan Garcia,” ter Stegen stated, acknowledging the club’s decision which he says he respects. His exit was accelerated by a persistent back injury that sidelined him for four-and-a-half months, with reports suggesting he even considered surgery to resolve the issue.
Immediate Impact at Girona
Ter Stegen’s debut for Girona was a baptism of fire in a tense match against Getafe. The German was credited with helping his new team rescue a point, making a crucial save in the 95th minute that was celebrated by fans online. Spanish press labelled him “the undisputed star of the match” following his performance. The move is seen as a strategic play by Barcelona to boost the goalkeeper’s market value and playing time ahead of a potential permanent transfer in the summer.
Key Facts: The Ter Stegen Transfer
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Transfer Type | Loan from FC Barcelona to Girona FC |
| Duration | Until the end of the 2025/26 season (June 2026) |
| Girona Debut | 27 January 2026 vs Getafe (1-1 draw) |
| Primary Motivation | Regain starting spot to secure place in Germany’s 2026 World Cup squad |
| Barcelona Replacement | Joan Garcia (new first-choice goalkeeper) |
The Road to the 2026 World Cup
Professionally, the loan represents a critical career move for ter Stegen. With his place as Germany’s number one under threat due to his lack of playing time at Barcelona, regular minutes at Girona are essential for his hopes of featuring in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has reportedly issued a determined “five-word warning” to his new club, signalling his intent to compete at the highest level. Former Barcelona teammate Eric Garcia, who spent a previous season at Girona, is said to have played a key role in convincing ter Stegen about the move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Marc-Andre ter Stegen leave Barcelona?
Ter Stegen left on loan after losing his starting position to new signing Joan Garcia, compounded by a long-term back injury. Barcelona’s sporting decision to favour Garcia prompted the move to secure playing time for the German international.
Is ter Stegen’s move to Girona permanent?
No, the current agreement is a loan until June 2026. His long-term future at Barcelona remains uncertain, and the loan is viewed as an opportunity to showcase his fitness and form for a potential transfer next summer.
How did he perform on his Girona debut?
He performed well in a 1-1 draw against Getafe on 27 January, making important saves including a notable late stop. The Spanish press praised his performance as decisive in earning his new team a point.