Following lengthy spells of misfortune, Ter Stegen has completely turned over a new leaf at Barcelona this season. The German is flying high and appears to be going through his finest form for the club.
Despite conceding goals in his last three games owing to the club’s celebratory phase, normality resumed against Mallorca as the Catalans came out unscathed at the back.
Barcelona enjoyed a 3-0 victory against Mallorca, with comfort on the ball and little resistance off it. A red card early in the game saw the visitors crumble further. As a result, Ter Stegen had a measly 17 touches on the ball, a save, a clearance, and 4 long passes completed.
With the Zamora trophy already entitled to his name, Ter Stegen has his eyes set on a much more historic record: the most clean sheets of all time in the Spanish competition. His 26th cleansheet currently has him tied with the legendary Liano.
However, to overcome his feat, one more clean sheet is required and the opportunity presents itself against Celta Vigo away from home.
Ter Stegen’s admission of the importance this record holds to him was made clear, “It is crazy to reach 26 clean sheets. Having achieved it makes me very happy, it was very difficult to achieve it. In the last few games, we suffered a lot in defense, but in the end, the prize has arrived.“
“Now, the goal is to overcome it. Once you are there, you have to attack it. It is not my mission, but the whole team’s. I have to admit that now I am calmer, reaching these heights and not equaling the record would have been very hard.“
Ter Stegen’s sublime form between the sticks has warranted great admiration, but one final hurdle remains before he can conclude the season on an even better note and become the keeper with the most clean sheets. The 31-year-old played a crucial part in achieving the La Liga title, coming up clutch against teams astute in attack.
While Celta will by no means make it easy for Ter Stegen to fulfill his goal with their backs pressed against the wall owing to a relegation battle, Barcelona’s keeper will certainly be motivated.
