Ter Stegen was initially expected to be out for an extended period for Barcelona, with an estimated absence of over two months due to surgery for a persistent back problem. However, the goalkeeper has shown improvement in his recovery, and according to the Spanish outlet Relevo, there’s a possibility he might return before the month concludes.

Originally, there was concern about Ter Stegen’s ability to play in Barcelona’s round of 16 match against Napoli in the Champions League. The first leg, scheduled for February 21, was thought to be a tentative target date, but it seems likely that he will rejoin the team well ahead of that fixture.

The Barcelona manager has consistently expressed confidence in the squad’s depth to manage without their star goalkeeper and dismissed suggestions that the club would seek additional options in the market for that position. He stated, “We have confidence in our players and Inaki Pena has been playing at a very high level.”

Barcelona’s focus is now on the Spanish Super Cup, where they are set to compete against Osasuna. A victory would lead them to face either Atletico Madrid or Real Madrid in the final, offering an opportunity to defend their title.

After intensive conversations with the medical team of the Club and various supporting experts, we decided to undergo a surgical procedure. The break obviously annoys me. It is the right and safe decision in order to come back in the best conditions for my Club @FCBarcelona and… pic.twitter.com/gpNbkO07y9

— Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1) December 5, 2023

Marc-André ter Stegen

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