4 moments that define Ter Stegen

Ter Stegen is 28 years old, and one of the most outstanding goalkeepers in Barça history is characterised by his calmness between the sticks. This April 30, on the German's birthday, we review 4 moments that define his game and his personality.

1. A sturdy hand

The Barça goalkeeper rarely has to make saves, but even so, sometimes, his single-minded approach, can be decisive for the club. Being a Barça keeper requires concentration from the first second to the last, and that's something that the German has shown since his debut. In the 91st minute, FC Barcelona were winning 1-0 at APOEL and, with the only dangerous shot from the Cypriots on that match day 1 of the 2014/15 Champions League, Ter Stegen saved the day.

That wouldn't be the only strong hand that he's shown at Barça, because he's repelled powerful shots that were heading to the bottom corners of the net many times. His record of 591 stops in 224 matches speaks for itself, and of particular note is his performance in the 2017 Clásico at the Bernabéu. On that occasion he saved 12 chances from the hosts in a remarkable showing.

2. Quick reactions

Bayern Munich fans were already celebrating Lewandowski's goal, but Ter Stegen stood firm against the marksman. It was the 39th minute of the second leg of the 2014/15 Champions League semi-finals and the Bavarians were looking to turn the score around and the tie. The German, kneeling on the ground, somehow diverted away a piledriver from the No.9 for one of his most memorable stops.

He would demonstrate his reaction speed again, this time with a double save against Sevilla at the Camp Nou last season. Two stops that increased his stats with FC Barcelona. These figures, which, since his arrival and counting all the competitions, reflect an average of 61% effectiveness in saves. It's no coincidence either that Ter Stegen is the player who has the record of most games without losing in the history of LaLiga (42), between 2016 and 2018.

3. Two incredible assists

Ter Stegen's accuracy with his feet has meant that he's also been able to assist for goals, specifically, during the 2019/20 season. On matchday 7, the No.1 found Suárez to open the scoring at Getafe. An action that he would repeat months later, on match day 16, against Mallorca. This time the assist was for Griezmann.

One more action that defines Ter Stegen. A confident, modern goalkeeper.