Marc-André ter Stegen’s fresh start at Girona has suffered a cruel and sudden setback, with the German goalkeeper now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines just weeks after completing his winter move from Barcelona.
The 32-year-old joined Míchel’s side during the January transfer window in search of regular minutes and a chance to keep himself firmly in contention for Germany’s plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, that ambition has been put on hold after Ter Stegen sustained a serious injury in only his second appearance for the Catalan club.
Medical tests have since confirmed that the goalkeeper will require surgery, ruling him out for several months and cutting short what was meant to be an important new chapter in his career.
Following confirmation of the injury, Ter Stegen took to social media to address Girona supporters directly, delivering an emotional and honest message as he comes to terms with the setback.
“Most of you don’t know me on a personal level, so I want to share something with you,” the German wrote. “I’m a positive person. I’ve always had this mindset and carried it with me through every challenge I’ve faced, but this one is especially tough for me.”
The former Barcelona captain admitted the injury came at the worst possible time, having only just settled into his new environment.
“Last weekend, the worst happened: I got injured during the match,” he continued. “I had just arrived in Girona, where I was treated with great warmth and closeness from the very first minute. I was really looking forward to being part of the team and helping achieve our shared objective.”
La mayoría de vosotros no me conocéis a nivel personal, así que quiero compartir algo con vosotros.
Soy una persona positiva. Siempre he tenido esta mentalidad y la he llevado conmigo en cada reto que he afrontado, pero este está siendo especialmente duro para mí.El fin de… pic.twitter.com/I0VUzaq5ld
— Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1) February 5, 2026
Despite the blow, Ter Stegen stressed that his commitment to the club remains unwavering, even if his role has now changed.
“Now my role has had to change completely, but my support for the team won’t,” he said. “It’s not just a great group of players and coaching staff; it feels like a family, and from the start I’ve felt their support and closeness.”
The goalkeeper also confirmed his decision to undergo surgery, accepting that months away from the pitch now lie ahead.
“As athletes, our greatest joy is competing: training and playing,” Ter Stegen added. “I have to put all of that on pause for several months, as I’ve decided to undergo surgery. I will be back.”
For Girona, the injury is a significant setback, while for Ter Stegen, it marks another difficult chapter in a career that has already tested his resilience. Still, if his message is anything to go by, the German is already focused on the long road back.
