Ter Stegen celebrates national team return after disappointing Ajax draw

Marc Ter Stegen experienced a disappointing match on Saturday with Ajax, which ended in a 2-2 draw against Excelsior, after which he can fully focus on his comeback with Germany. The German goalkeeper can now, five days later, play his first match for the national team against the Netherlands in the Johan Cruyff Arena.

Disappointing draw for Ajax

Ajax faced off against Excelsior on Saturday, with both teams scoring twice and the match ending in a point. The result left the club without a win, which was perceived as a disappointment by the players and supporters. Ter Stegen, who was playing for Ajax, could not compensate for the defeat.

Germany will take on the Netherlands in five days at the Johan Cruyff Arena, a match that offers Ter Stegen the chance to confirm his place in the squad. The game is seen as an important test ahead of the upcoming group stage of the European qualifiers.

Ter Stegen praises Klopp and shows how he brings calm to the team

Ter Stegen smiled broadly when he said: ‘This means a lot to me. Yes, a lot. I have suffered along the way.’ He added that he always wants to show his best version and that playing for the country is a dream for every football‑loving child. He praised national team coach Jürgen Klopp for the way he is treated in Germany and thanked him for the opportunity.

In Klopp’s 44‑man squad, Thilo Kehrer and Julian Brandt are missing, with Brandt’s absence being particularly noticeable. Ter Stegen praised Brandt, ‘Jule does great work’, and emphasized that he has no criticism of the selections. He stated that Klopp analyses every player in detail and that Brandt is a game‑changer.

After the confrontation with the Netherlands, he can prepare for a home duel against Greece in Augsburg on 27 September. This match provides an additional opportunity to showcase his form for the national team.