The fact that the FIFA World Cup because it is played every four years, its importance is significantly greater than that of any other football competition. No player wants to miss the opportunity to play in the tournament, and that is why stars love it Marc-André Ter Stegen And Kobbie Mainoo are reportedly interested in a move in January 2026.
Ter Stegen has returned to full fitness in recent weeks after a back operation that sidelined him for several months. However, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick considers John Garcia his starting goalkeeper, with Wojciech Szczesny also available as an alternative.
That situation puts Ter Stegen in a difficult position as with just six months to go before the World Cup it is unlikely he will get regular playing time and prove he can Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann that he is in optimal condition to become the first goalkeeper of the national team.
Girona has emerged as a viable option for the German player, especially following comments from coach Michelwho said: “I would love to have Ter Stegen with us! He is a top player. Everyone would like to have a goalkeeper like Ter Stegen.”
Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic wants to leave Girona in search of more playing time.
The opportunity for Girona is no coincidence as the club finds itself in a similar situation with one of its own goalkeepers. Dominik Livakovican important player for the Croatia national team, joined the Spanish club last summer and has barely played since, prompting him to request an early departure in January to avoid losing his place in the World Cup.
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FIFA World Cup 2026 at stake: Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen gets brutal reality check as German director sets clear conditions for his participation
Manchester United is facing the same problem
The goal of securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup is also there for a couple Manchester United players. Kobbie Mainoo is the clearest example: despite being one of the brightest young talents in English football, he has struggled for playing time since the arrival of Reuben Amorimwhich has hurt his chances of success England‘s team.
Absent from any roster mentioned by Thomas Tuchel Since taking over in January 2025, Mainoo has had no margin for error. He must either drastically improve his situation at Manchester United or look for an immediate move Naples emerged as the leading option.
There is another Red Devils player in a similar situation Joshua Zirkzee. The attacker has played thirteen games across the country this season Premier League and the Carabao cup but only started three, what are his chances of getting the The Netherlands selection for the World Cup. In that context, rumors about a possible move are circulating AS Rome become stronger.
Two of Messi’s teammates in opposite situations
That same list of players includes two youngsters Argentina prospects: Claudio Echeverri And Franco Mastantuono. Both received their first call-ups to the senior national team this year – although Echeverri is yet to make his debut – but have lost momentum in recent months due to their club situation.
With limited options Bayer Leverkusenreports indicate Echeverri will be leaving soon Bundesligaof Manchester citythe club that owns his rights and plans to loan him out Girona to increase his playing time. That move could increase his chances of getting a spot next to him Lionel Messi on Argentina’s 26-man World Cup squad.
Mastantuono’s case is different. While he also struggles to get consistent minutes Real Madrid, The position of the Spanish club seems determinedas they are unwilling to let the young winger leave during the January transfer window. That leaves Franco with one clear path: persuasion Xabi Alonso that he is ready to play and send a message to the Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni.
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