Customers receive charging mats from Outlets; company ponders future potential - Ter Stegen's discontentment: No contemplation of retiring.
Marc-André ter Stegen finds it difficult to handle being dropped to the second-string goalkeeper at the Euros. "It's not a pleasant situation. The coach has made his decision, which I accept, even though I don't agree with it," shared the Barcelona keeper on Tuesday at the Germany team's training ground.
Though he had thought about quitting the German national team after Julian Nagelsmann chose Manuel Neuer as the starting goalkeeper, ter Stegen ultimately decided against it. "There's the sporting side and the human side. I want everyone to trust me," said the 32-year-old. "It's very disappointing for me, but you have a responsibility to the team. I'll pitch in where I can," he promised.
Ter Stegen had taken the position as the main goalkeeper for the German side during Neuer's lengthy injury rehabilitation following his leg fracture. Much like before the 2018 World Cup, he was demoted to the backup goalkeeper shortly before the tournament. His only stint as the number one keeper in a tournament was at the Confederations Cup 2017 when Joachim Löw, mostly relying on his regulars, including Neuer. So far, he has made 40 international appearances.
Neuer empathized with ter Stegen's disappointment following his comeback to Germany's team on Monday against Ukraine (0:0), having been sidelined for 18 months. Ter Stegen confirmed that he and Neuer maintained a good rapport. "There's no issue with Manu. We hold the same position. But it doesn't impact our personal relationship. It's nice to have mutual understanding," he said.
While wishing Neuer a clean bill of health and flawless performances, ter Stegen didn't elaborate on the possibility of another setback for the Bayern Munich stopper. "It's not my style. It's hard to be the second choice, but I can live up to that," he added. The Euro squad features four goalkeepers, including Neuer, ter Stegen, Oliver Baumann of Hoffenheim, and Alexander Nübel of Stuttgart, marking the first time such a situation has transpired in a major tournament.
