Former Barcelona goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has expressed his willingness to return to the club following the serious injury to Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, Soccernet.footbal reports.
The German shot-stopper was sidelined after picking up a severe injury during Barcelona’s recent victory over Villarreal, leaving the club in need of a replacement for the remainder of the season.
Ter Stegen’s absence leaves Barcelona in a difficult position, with Inaki Pena and other goalkeepers from La Masia being considered as immediate options.
While the club is willing to trust Pena for now, they are also exploring the possibility of bringing in an experienced replacement.
La Liga regulations allow Barcelona to sign a free agent before the January transfer window opens, as long as the new player’s salary is within 80% of Ter Stegen’s wage.
In this scenario, 41-year-old Claudio Bravo, a former Champions League winner with Barcelona, has made himself available for a potential return.
In an interview with WinWin, Bravo said, “If Barcelona want me, I will be ready to come out of retirement.”
The Chilean goalkeeper, who recently retired, could fit within the financial constraints outlined by La Liga, making him a viable short-term solution.
However, concerns about Bravo’s age and readiness to compete at the highest level will be factors Barcelona must weigh.
Until any decision is made, Inaki Pena will be tasked with taking over goalkeeping duties at the Camp Nou. Barcelona will likely assess Pena’s performances while considering whether Bravo or another option could help fill the void left by Ter Stegen’s absence.