In order for a team like Barcelona to remain strong and united, the presence of competent leaders is crucial. Over the years, many greats of the game have donned the captain’s armband within FC Barcelona. However, certain players lead by example while others lead through this mental strength.
Currently, Barcelona has four captains assigned to the first team. Sergi Roberto is the first captain, followed by Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo, and Frenkie De Jong as the other captains. Due to the lack of time that Roberto has had on the field this season, Ter Stegen is the one who typically represents the team as the captain.
However, Barcelona have recently suffered and struggled a lot with their performances. The Catalan club is currently experiencing a declining form and needs to correct it as quickly as possible. In times like these, words from team captains can be key.
Words of a leader
As such, it is Ter Stegen himself who has stepped up. In a recent post on X, as highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, the captain shared a message of faith and commitment. With a picture of himself, the German keeper put the caption “A lot to improve. All in our hands.”
This message comes almost a day or more after the recent loss to Shakhtar Donetsk. On its own, it is exactly the kind of communication that Barcelona need to hear. The entire season is still left to play for with La Blaugrana competing in several competitions.
Ter Stegen’s recent heroics
In terms of how they play and how positive their results are, all these details remain in the hands of Barcelona themselves. Ter Stegen, for his part, has been quite solid for Barça in recent games.
Had it not been for his heroics, the win over Real Sociedad would arguably not have come. Moreover, even against Shakhtar Donetsk, it was the work of Ter Stegen that ended up keeping the scoreline presentable for Barcelona.
Next challenge for Barcelona
Xavi’s men next face off against Deportivo Alaves on Sunday at the Montjuic Stadium. Barcelona will be hoping to make a statement and ensure that they leave the home fans with a strong performance before the international break. Ter Stegen will undoubtedly be crucial, but the others will need to step up as well.