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According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare has spoken about his experience of training alongside German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen at Ajax, joking that the former Barcelona captain makes life difficult for attackers because of his ability to produce impressive saves.
Ter Stegen joined Ajax on loan from Barcelona during the summer in search of regular playing time after losing his position in the team’s plans under manager Hansi Flick. The arrival of Joan Garcia and the continued presence of Wojciech Szczesny had made competition for the goalkeeper’s position more difficult, encouraging the German international to consider a temporary move away from the Spanish club.
His switch to the Netherlands has provided an opportunity to regain his confidence and establish himself as an important member of the Ajax squad. The 34-year-old has also reunited with coach Michel, who previously worked with him during his loan spell at Girona.
Speaking in an interview with Belgian publication Het Laatste Nieuws, Arokodare praised Ter Stegen’s quality while describing how difficult it can be to score against him during training sessions.
The Nigerian forward jokingly admitted that the goalkeeper’s ability to stop shots can sometimes become frustrating for attacking players who are trying to improve their finishing.
“Ter Stegen drives me crazy during training. Sometimes it’s incredibly frustrating to see him keep saving so many shots. It makes you want to punch him!” Arokodare said.
Although his comments were made humorously, they also highlighted the quality and experience Ter Stegen brings to the Ajax squad. The German goalkeeper has built a reputation as one of Europe’s experienced shot-stoppers through his years at Barcelona, where he played an important role in the team’s domestic and European campaigns.
Since arriving in Amsterdam, Ter Stegen has made 13 appearances across all competitions, recording three clean sheets while conceding 19 goals.
His current loan spell represents another opportunity to rebuild his career after an unsuccessful period at Girona earlier in the year. He joined the club on loan in January but suffered an injury shortly after his arrival, limiting his chances of playing regularly.
With his Barcelona contract running until 2028, Ter Stegen’s future remains a subject of interest. His performances at Ajax could influence discussions about his long-term position at the Spanish club, including the possibility of a permanent departure next summer.