Barcelona’s Champions League Goalkeeping Dilemma: Ter Stegen or Szczesny?

Hansi Flick Faces Tough Decision Ahead of Knockout Stages

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is facing a major selection headache ahead of the Champions League knockout rounds, as UEFA regulations dictate that the club can only register one of Marc-André ter Stegen or Wojciech Szczesny. With both goalkeepers available, Flick must now decide which shot-stopper will take charge between the posts for the remainder of the competition.

While Ter Stegen has long been Barcelona’s undisputed No.1, Szczesny has stepped up impressively in his absence, making the decision far from straightforward.

Ter Stegen’s Injury and Return to Fitness

Barcelona’s season started with Ter Stegen as their first-choice goalkeeper, but a patella tendon injury in September sidelined him for several months. The German international has not featured in the Champions League since the group stage opener, forcing the club to seek an emergency solution.

Now, Ter Stegen has returned to full training and is eager to reclaim his spot. Speaking to BILD’s Phrasenmaher podcast, the Barcelona captain said:

“I’m back after six months and I feel physically better than ever. I have a great team around me, and I’m hungry to play. When I feel ready, I’ll let the coach know.”

Szczesny’s Unexpected Revival at Barcelona

With Ter Stegen sidelined, Barcelona turned to Wojciech Szczesny, bringing the veteran goalkeeper out of retirement to fill the gap. The former Juventus and Arsenal shot-stopper has exceeded expectations, delivering crucial performances that have helped Barcelona remain competitive on multiple fronts.

• Key stats since joining:
  • Most saves per game for Barcelona this season
  • Highest save percentage in La Liga since January
  • Clean sheets in key matches, including against Real Madrid

Reports suggest that Barcelona are considering offering Szczesny a contract extension following his impressive displays. This could create long-term competition for the No.1 spot, making Flick’s decision even more complicated.

UEFA’s Special Goalkeeper Rule and Flick’s Dilemma

According to UEFA regulations, teams cannot register new outfield players after the February deadline, but there is an exception for goalkeepers:

“Once the injured or ill goalkeeper is fit to play again, he can resume his position in place of his substitute. The return of the original goalkeeper must be announced to UEFA 24 hours before the next match.”

This means that Barcelona cannot keep both goalkeepers in the squad for the remainder of the tournament—one must be dropped entirely.

When asked about the situation, Flick remained non-committal:

“We will take things step by step. When Ter Stegen feels fully fit, we will see what happens. The good news is that he is progressing well, and we are happy with that.”

Who Should Flick Choose for the Champions League?

Both goalkeepers bring different strengths to the table:

• Ter Stegen: Long-time No.1, experienced in high-pressure UCL games, excellent distribution.
• Szczesny: In top form, solid reflexes, proven leadership in tough moments.

With Barcelona pushing for European glory, Flick’s choice could be the difference between success and failure. Should he go with the returning captain, or stick with the in-form veteran who has been critical to Barcelona’s recent stability?

What do you think—should Barcelona restore Ter Stegen, or continue with Szczesny for the Champions League?