Xavi celebrates warm reunion with former teammate Ter Stegen after Netherlands‑Germany duel
In the Johan Cruijff Arena, after a 1‑1 draw between the Netherlands and Germany, national team coach Xavi Hernández experienced a warm moment: he embraced the German goalkeeper Marc Ter Stegen, a former teammate from their glory days at FC Barcelona.
A friendship forged in Barcelona
The two know each other from their shared time at FC Barcelona, where they together won the Champions League in 2015. This season Ter Stegen is defending for Ajax and has played a total of 423 games in goal for Barcelona.
In 121 of those 423 games, Xavi was the ultimate decision‑maker for the attacks of the Catalan club, which has strengthened their relationship.
After the match the two sought each other out; Xavi praised the German keeper’s return and called him a “warrior”. Ter Stegen answered the compliments with thanks and praised Xavi’s quick build‑up of a strong Dutch side.
“What a great performance, Ter! Because of you we almost lost the match,” quotes Voetbal International of Xavi’s words. The keeper replied: “It’s been a long time, boss. It feels good to see you again.”
Ter Stegen concluded: “Xavi is a nice person and it has been a privilege to play under him at Barcelona.”