Ivan Rakitic has waded into the row over who ought to be Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper by publicly backing former team-mate Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
Ter Stegen is reported to have slipped down the pecking order at Barca following the signing of Joan García from crosstown rivals Espanyol and skilled Pole Wojciech Szczesny renewing his contract.
The concern is difficult by the very fact Ter Stegen might require again surgical procedure that will preserve him out for as much as 4 months.
Ter Stegen had main surgical procedures in 2021, 2023, 2024, and now 2025. The membership is 100% justified in on the lookout for a everlasting substitute. pic.twitter.com/bGe3Lr7ZSE
— whole Barça (@wholeBarca) July 17, 2025
Garcia has to earn it – Rakitic
But, if he can show his health, Rakitic believes the German remains to be Barca’s finest goalkeeper.
He instructed Cope: “I talked to him and I noticed him very excited and completely satisfied. I hope his damage is nothing severe and he can return quickly.
“Between Joan García and Ter Stegen it’s very simple, Ter Stegen performs. He is the captain and a really revered participant at Barça.”
He added: “If Marc is wholesome, there is no such thing as a doubt. I want all of Barca’s issues had been to decide on between three nice footballers.
“Joan may be very proficient however he must earn it [the number one position]. It’s one factor to play in a La Liga group and one other to be Barcelona’s primary. I don’t see a greater goalkeeper in Europe or on this planet.”
Rakitic backs Yamal to win over critics, with Flick’s assist
Rakitic, who retired not too long ago to grow to be the sporting director at Hajduk Split, loved a stellar profession in Catalonia, profitable La Liga 4 occasions and the Champions League in 2015.
And the previous Croatia midfielder believes this week’s controversy surrounding Lamine Yamal may also die down.
Spain winger Yamal hit the headlines after celebrating his 18th birthday on Saturday with using employed dwarves as leisure. It can be rumoured he spent a part of his offseason on vacation with an OnlyFans star 12 years his senior.
Rakitic added: “He is a boy who deserves to be completely satisfied. He’s a spectacular boy, I solely hear good issues about him. Let’s get pleasure from him and make him completely satisfied, it’s an important factor.
“In [Barca boss Hansi] Flick, he has the right individual and when he has to name him into his workplace, he’ll.”
