Barcelona’s Ter Stegen set for surgery after ruptured knee tendon

Barcelona’s goalkeeper and captain, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, will undergo surgery after suffering a complete rupture of the patella tendon in his right knee, the club announced on Monday. The injury, which could potentially sideline the 32-year-old German international for the rest of the season, occurred during Barcelona’s 5-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday.

Ter Stegen was stretchered off in the first half at the Estadio de la Ceramica after landing awkwardly. “I think it will be a huge injury, when he lay down on the field… you can see it directly,” said Barcelona coach Hansi Flick after the match.

The goalkeeper will have surgery later on Monday, with the club promising further updates post-procedure. Inaki Pena replaced Ter Stegen during the game and is expected to continue in goal, although Barcelona may seek a more permanent replacement.

Flick was cautious when asked about the team’s plans following the injury. “I don’t want to talk about that right now. Marc is our captain and a very important player for us,” he said.

Ter Stegen’s injury comes just days after he faced criticism for a mistake in Barcelona’s 2-1 Champions League defeat to Monaco.

(Source: AFP)