Barça beats Osasuna and Ter Stegen becomes the main protagonist

FC Barcelona has achieved a hard-fought and very important victory against Osasuna this afternoon at Camp Nou by 2-0. Although the Navarrese team had several clear chances, the Catalans have shown their superiority by knowing how to punish at just the right moment. It wasn't a brilliant match, but it was extremely effective.

Barça's play was not very fluid during many stretches of the match. There was a lack of precision in the final third and continuity in ball circulation. Even so, the Catalan team knew how to compete and resist when the match demanded it.

Both goals in the match came thanks to Raphinha. The skillful culé striker appeared again when his team needed him most. An individual action of great quality put the first goal on the scoreboard with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, and he took advantage of a rebound to score the second.

However, Osasuna didn't back down at any moment. The Navarrese team pressed high at times and looked to cause damage behind the culé defense. They even had enough chances to take something positive from Camp Nou.

Ter Stegen draws the spotlight from the bench

However, beyond what happened on the field, almost all the attention went to Ter Stegen. The German goalkeeper was the main figure before the match and will be for days to come. His situation has taken an unexpected turn.

Ter Stegen is already fully recovered from the back surgery he underwent at the end of last summer. Physically, he is well and training normally with the rest of the group. The problem isn't medical, but sporting.

Hansi Flick was very clear before the start of the match. The German coach confirmed that Joan García is the team's number one goalkeeper. There won't be any rotations or alternations in goal as long as the young goalkeeper keeps his level.

Ter Stegen rebels

In this scenario, leaving seemed the most logical option. The World Cup will be played this summer and Ter Stegen needs to play regularly if he wants to be the starter for Germany. Remaining on Barça's bench seriously compromises that goal.

However, the surprise came before Barça-Osasuna. From within the club, it was leaked that Ter Stegen has no intention of leaving. His decision is made and it's firm.

The goalkeeper prefers to fulfill his contract with FC Barcelona until 2028. Even as a substitute, he puts his contract with the club ahead of his personal aspirations with the German national team. It's a stance that has caused internal debate.

Ter Stegen is aware that he isn't going to play. Flick has already told him clearly and transparently. Even so, he accepts his role and assumes the sporting consequences that come with it in order to receive the entirety of his contract until 2028.