Marc-Andre ter Stegen: UCL win gives Barcelona ‘peace and stability’

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has offered his thoughts on the team’s win over Dynamo Kiev and thinks it will give the team some much-needed “peace and stability” after another turbulent start to the season.

The Catalan giants had been in big trouble in the Champions League after opening with consecutive 3-0 defeats to Bayern Munich and Benfica but now have their destiny in their own hands.

“This was vital. Thank heavens we won. I know that Dynamo had some chances but that’ll always happen. In general, we produced a good display and I’m content,” he said.

“Right now, we’re lacking finishers. But in the second half we took up better positions all over the pitch and that helps the strikers a lot. In recent games, teams have been creating danger against us and more or less scoring with their first chance every time.”

Ter Stegen also spoke about Ansu Fati, who scored the winning goal with a brilliant finish, and Sergio Aguero who has been ruled out for three months after cardiac tests.

“There are little things we can all do to help Ansu become a still-more exceptional striker. It’s about positional play. But that’s a heck of an important goal he’s produced for us. It’s only three points, it’s only ever three ... but this win brings us some stability and peace momentarily.

“Now it’s time for us to grow. We’ve got a big game this weekend (at Celta) but health is always more important than sport and Kun [Aguero]’s wellbeing was vital to us all. We all hope he recovers as soon as possible ... but the most important thing is that he’s healthy.”

Source | UEFA

Barcelona are expected to be under new management by the time Benfica visit the Camp Nou on November 23. It’s thought Xavi will be confirmed as the club’s new permanent manager shortly and will take charge for the first time against Espanyol after the international break.