Barcelona’s goalkeeping situation has been a focal point this season, especially following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s significant injury setback.
The German international suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee during a match against Villarreal in September 2024, necessitating surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period.
In response, Barcelona signed Wojciech Szczesny in October 2024 to cover for Ter Stegen’s absence.
Szczesny, who had recently announced his retirement, was persuaded to return to professional football, signing a contract with Barcelona until June 2025.
His experience and leadership have been invaluable, especially during high-stakes matches, including the Supercopa de Espana and Champions League fixtures.
As the season progressed, Ter Stegen’s recovery showed promising signs.
After 215 days sidelined, he received medical clearance and is included in the squad for the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid.
Despite his return to fitness, many will be wondering whether head coach Hansi Flick will opt start Szczesny in the final, acknowledging the Polish goalkeeper’s consistent performances during Ter Stegen’s absence.
Amidst these developments, former Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas revealed he had declined an offer to join Barcelona earlier in the season.
In an interview with El Larguero, Navas stated, “My name was mentioned in the media about Barca.
“They called my agent.
“For me, I saw it as a great thing that the team that was a rival for so long, and I’ve always been a Real Madrid player, sees me as an option.
“It’s very nice, and this interest is a compliment.”
However, he emphasized his loyalty to Real Madrid, adding, “If Florentino Pérez calls me instead of Barcelona, I’m swimming if I have to.”
“These are the decisions you make not with your heart, but with football in mind,” Navas explained.
“I left Madrid because I didn’t have the minutes to play and another team gave them to me… If it were up to my heart, I would have spent my whole life at Real Madrid.
“I wanted to leave as much as I want to die.”
Keylor Navas ultimately signed with Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys in January 2025, continuing his professional career in South America.
👋 🇨🇷 ¡Saludamos a @NavasKeylor en #ElLarguero! ¿Le llamó el Barça tras la lesión de Ter Stegen?
👀 “Sonaba mi nombre por ahí… pero siempre es complicado”
📳 “¿Me llamaron? A mi representante. Lo vi como un halago”https://t.co/ZiXBqbLNG2 pic.twitter.com/OmReNgL5rR
— El Larguero (@ellarguero) April 24, 2025
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