Ter Stegen tipped to usurp Neuer
Former Switzerland international Jorg Stiel believes Marc-Andre ter Stegen has what it takes to usurp Manuel Neuer as Germany's first-choice goalkeeper.
By FOX Sports staff
Neuer has been the national team's number one since the 2010 FIFA World Cup after a string of fine displays with Schalke saw him establish himself as one of the world's best goalkeepers, and earn a big-money move to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2011.
Given he's still only 26, many believe he has what it takes to stay between the posts for Germany over the next decade but Stiel, who spent three seasons at Borussia Monchengladbach, believes current Die Fohlen custodian Ter Stegen could have something to say about that.
"Marc is better and has more quality than Manuel Neuer," he told Spox.
"It's quite clear - in the not-too-distant future - he will be Germany's No. 1."
Stiel, who won 21 caps for Switzerland, also believes the Bundesliga has prepared the 20-year-old for the world's top leagues, after he was asked if Ter Stegen would be good enough to play for a team like Barcelona or Real Madrid.
"Of course I trust him [to be ready for Madrid or Barca]," he added.
"Whoever masters the Bundesliga is ready for any challenge."
Ter Stegen was part of the Gladbach squad that finished fourth in the Bundesliga last season, although they have struggled to replicate their sparkling displays this term following the departures of several stars, including Marco Reus and Roman Neustadter.