Gerard Pique’s abrupt retirement this season has left a void in Barcelona’s defensive unit. In addition to his experience and skill, Pique’s leadership will also be missed.
The Spaniard was indeed one of the four captains of the Barcelona team, along with Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. But with Pique retiring, the Catalans are now looking for someone to fill the role, according to AS.
The report suggests Barça may soon finalise the fourth captain, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen likely in the front seat. The position will be decided by a vote and with all players returning from the World Cup, the procedure might take place soon, with the 30-year-old shot-stopper the frontrunner.
The German international has emerged as one of the top performers for Barcelona this season, producing a series of impressive performances that have helped the club retain the top spot in the league table and muster the best defensive record in the league.
Ter Stegen is also one of the most experienced members of the team, having featured in 346 competitive matches for Barcelona since joining the club in 2014.
The former Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper is in the driver’s seat to become Barcelona’s fourth captain. He has previously donned the captain’s armband for the Blaugrana and in a recent interview, expressed his keenness to take over the leadership mantle.
The Catalans are considering the possibility of Robert Lewandowski becoming a team leader as well, but they are not expected to entertain the idea until the start of next season.
This is because Barça are facing a battle to keep hold of Busquets, whose contract expires at the end of the season. Although the coaching staff wants to renew the midfielder’s deal, there is a sense of fear that he may leave the club in 2023.
Should Busquets depart, Lewandowski could be called in as a replacement. There might be room for one more leader as Sergi Roberto is also facing an uncertain future at Camp Nou, with Barcelona still yet to table an official proposal.