Barcelona superstar sends message to fans after being ruled out vs Rayo Vallecano: “I’ll be back soon”

Barcelona’s biggest takeaway from the recent international break is the ACL injury Gavi suffered on duty with the Spanish national team.

The repercussions of the youngster’s absence will be felt at Estadio de Vallecas when Barcelona take on Rayo Vallecano later today, but the midfield will not be the only position that experiences a void.

Xavi Hernandez confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Marc-Andre ter Stegen will not be able to participate in Saturday’s clash, thus clarifying that the Blaugranas had a second key obstacle to overcome.

Ter Stegen sends out a message

After the manager’s confirmation of his absence, Ter Stegen himself took to social media to apologise to fans of both Barcelona and the German national team. After all, he missed the last two games with his national team through the same fitness setback.

“I’m really disappointed that I couldn’t play the last two games with Germany. Yesterday I made the decision not to play against Rayo today. I’ll be back soon!,” his official message read.

I’m really disappointed that I wasn’t able to play the last two games for Germany. Yesterday I made the decision to not play against Rayo today.
I’m coming back soon!! pic.twitter.com/RYi6e9ZO6B

— Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1) November 25, 2023

With the player’s only issue being pain in his lower back, Barcelona will hope to regain his services in time for the critical fixture against Porto.

Chance for Pena

“Tomorrow Marc [Andre ter Stegen] will not be able to be there and all the confidence in Iñaki Peña, who is 100% prepared,” Xavi said in his press conference, backing Barcelona’s young Inaki Pena to step up to the occasion at Vallecas.

Yet, it will be anything but simple for the youngster to prove his mettle at the challenging venue. Barcelona have lost both of their last two games at the stadium and have not won there since 2021.

All eyes, thus will be on the talented phenomenon who has been attempting to break into the limelight for a few years now. Considering Ter Stegen’s otherwise positive fitness history, it could well be his last chance for a long time.