Barcelona’s star goalkeeper, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, expressed his personal disappointment following the announcement of Xavi’s resignation. The revelation came at a challenging time for Ter Stegen as he was in the midst of recovering from surgery. In a recent statement, Ter Stegen shared his thoughts on the departure and offered insights into the team’s mindset during this transitional period.
Ter Stegen acknowledged the impact of Xavi’s decision, emphasizing the bitter taste it left in his mouth. Having known the former coach for several years, Ter Stegen reflected on the responsibility the players bear for such decisions. Despite the setback, the goalkeeper emphasized that the team remains committed to giving their best on the field.
Xavi, credited with bringing the team to its current competitive state, received praise from Ter Stegen. The goalkeeper recognized Xavi’s coaching prowess and the positive influence he had on the team. Ter Stegen spoke about the challenging aspect of accepting Xavi’s departure, not just as a coach but also as a friend.
Regarding the potential successor, Hansi Flick, Ter Stegen commended the former Germany coach as a great person. However, he highlighted that the timing was not appropriate for discussing Flick’s potential role. The focus remained on the upcoming crucial game against Napoli, labeled as the most important of the season.
Conclusion:
As Barcelona faces a period of transition with Xavi’s departure, Ter Stegen’s reflections provide a glimpse into the team’s sentiments. The disappointment is palpable, yet the players are determined to continue their efforts on the field. With uncertainties surrounding the coaching position, the team is maintaining its focus on the immediate challenges, underscoring the significance of the upcoming match against Napoli.
