Slim Chance! Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s World Cup 2026 hopes fading

Marc-Andre ter Stegen chance of featuring at the 2026 World Cup has hit another stumbling block as Germany national team manager Julian Nagelsmann shares new update.

Ter Stegen was hoping he could be on the plane to represent Germany in the USA, Mexico and Canada but another injury sustained during his short loan spell at Girona seems to have put an end to that dream.

The Barcelona goalkeeper underwent surgery on a hamstring injury in February, and Nagelsmann admits it will be difficult for him to make his squad.

Marc-Andre Ter Stegen during his loan spell at Girona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

”We spoke briefly the day before yesterday. He’s always there when needed and when he can contribute. He doesn’t just look out for himself, but also considers the team,” he said.

“He needs to accelerate his rehabilitation. He’s not in much pain anymore, but everything takes time. And he’s not 21 anymore.”

“Out of respect for him, I’m not going to close the door on the World Cup , but the chances are very slim; he’s been out for almost a year.

There are no clear timeline when Ter Stegen will return to action, but as it stands, he might watch the summer World Cup from his comfort zone.

Ter Stegen has returned to Barcelona to step up his rehabilitation program, it’s now left to be seen if he’ll be fit in time to represent Germany at the biggest football event.