Barcelona confident key star will return from injury in time for UCL knockout matches

After being rocked by the injury of Gavi, Barcelona have found themselves in the middle of another grave issue.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who was suffering from a back problem since the international break, could reportedly be out for 2-3 months.

It appears the German requires an operation as his back problem is affecting his leg. This comes after the goalkeeper missed three back-to-back matches for Barcelona.

Barcelona confident of ter Stegen’s return

Recent reports even claimed that Ter Stegen could miss the club’s UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg tie in February.

But Barcelona remain upbeat about the goalkeeper’s return.

According to Javi Miguel, Barcelona are assured that Ter Stegen will return to action before the Champions League Round of 16 matches kick off.

Barcelona will play in the knockout stages of the UCL for the first time after Lionel Messi’s departure, meaning the club will be under immense pressure to perform. As such, having an experienced player like the German international will be important.

And Barça are confident Ter Stegen will return to play these knockout stage matches, which will begin in February.

Out for less than two months

Javi Miguel further points out that Ter Stegen will indeed undergo surgery, as the player has not responded well to conservative treatment.

However, Barcelona expect that the German might not be out for two to three months, as predicted earlier.

In fact, the club expect to have the goalkeeper back in less than a two-month period, which could serve as a major boost for Xavi Hernandez.

The Barcelona coach, though, can rely on Inaki Pena, who has stepped up to the plate in the absence of ter Stegen.

Pena notably put up an excellent display against Atletico Madrid and looks set to continue as the main man between the sticks for the Catalans.