The country's national squad is featured in this update. - Ter Stegen expresses dissatisfaction: No contemplation of retiring
Marc-André ter Stegen felt disappointed about being demoted to second-choice goalkeeper for the European Championship but accepted the decision. "It's not fun, but the coach has made his choice, which I respect even though I don't agree with it," said the Barcelona goalkeeper in the Germany national team's locker room.
He didn't even think about quitting the German team after Julian Nagelsmann opted to make Manuel Neuer the starter for the tournament.
"I spoke with the national coach about the sporting aspect and the human aspect. I want everyone to rely on me. Personally, it's very upsetting, but in the end, you have a responsibility to the team. I'll help where I can," the 32-year-old goalkeeper expressed.
Ter Stegen took over the top spot in the German team when Neuer was injured and sidelined after suffering a broken leg. Before the 2018 World Cup, he was once again replaced by Neuer as the main goalie. He was the first-choice goalie only once, during Germany's victory at the Confederations Cup 2017, when Joachim Löw relied on many regulars, including Neuer. To date, he has appeared in 40 international games.
Neuer acknowledged ter Stegen's disappointment after his return to the German team in a 0:0 draw against Ukraine on Monday. Ter Stegen mentioned that their friendship had nothing to do with the competition for the same position. "It's not about Manu. We both play the same position, but there's no personal issue between us. We get along well. Although we're competing for the same spot, that doesn't mean I can't like him," he said.
Ter Stegen refused to speculate about a possible recurrence of Neuer's injury. "I hope he gets well soon and never makes a mistake. That's how I am. It's not easy being the backup, but that's my role," he said. In Nagelsmann's Euros squad, there will be four goalkeepers: Neuer, ter Stegen, Oliver Baumann from Hoffenheim, and Alexander Nübel from Stuttgart - the first time a major tournament has featured four goalkeepers.
