Barcelona manager Hansi Flick’s recent choice to reinstate Marc-André ter Stegen as the starting goalkeeper in their La Liga match against Real Valladolid has sparked considerable debate and raised alarm bells—especially from club legend Lionel Messi.
Sources close to the Argentine superstar reveal that Messi is deeply concerned about Ter Stegen’s return to the starting eleven. He reportedly fears that this move could disrupt the team’s current rhythm and cohesion, just as they seem to be finding their best form. Messi believes that continuing to rely on Ter Stegen in critical matches may jeopardize the entire season’s ambitions, both domestically and in Europe.
His apprehension appears to be rooted in previous experiences, where he feels that Ter Stegen’s high-profile mistakes played a significant role in Barcelona’s failures on the European stage and tarnished the club’s image. From Messi’s perspective, giving the goalkeeper such a crucial role again could open the door for similar disappointments.
Although Flick may have made this decision in an effort to maintain unity and show trust in his veteran players, it has not gone unnoticed or unchallenged. Analysts and fans alike are questioning the timing of this call, suggesting that with so much at stake, Barcelona can’t afford to take unnecessary risks.
As the pressure intensifies with the season approaching its decisive phase, Messi’s concerns stand as a strong warning to Flick. Every tactical and personnel choice now carries weight, and this one, in particular, could determine the success or failure of all they’ve worked for.
