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- Rakitic says Ter Stegen should start ahead of Garcia
- Calls decision “very easy" and says he’s world’s best goalkeeper
- Flick expected to evaluate options during pre-season preparations
Former Barcelona midfielder Rakitic has strongly backed Ter Stegen to remain the club’s undisputed No. 1 under the German manager. In an interview with COPE Rakitic insisted the German international should start ahead of other options like new signing Joan Garcia, calling the decision “very easy” and labelling Ter Stegen the best goalkeeper in the world.
Ter Stegen, currently recovering from injury, has been told he will not be first or second choice this season, with Garcia and veteran shot stopper Wojciech Szczesny being preferred much to the German’s dismay. However, Rakitic pointed to the veteran’s leadership, captaincy role and elite standing in European football as key factors that should be enough to guarantee him a place in the starting XI.
Rakitic, who recently retired from football, said: “I spoke to him and he seems very excited and happy. I hope his injury is nothing serious and he can return soon. Between Joan García and Ter Stegen it’s very easy, Ter Stegen plays. He’s the captain and a highly respected player. With Marc healthy, there are no doubts. I wish all Barcelona’s problems were choosing between three great players. Joan has a lot of talent and he’s going to have to earn it. It’s one thing to play for a La Liga team and another to be Barcelona’s number 1. I don’t see a better goalkeeper in Europe or the world.”
Ter Stegen may require surgery to solve an injury he has been struggling with, which could ruin Barcelona’s hopes of selling the 33-year-old, who insists he will not leave despite the club insisting he will not play.
