Ter Stegen Makes Statement After Matching La Liga Defensive Record

• Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s heroics helped Barcelona secure La Liga for the 27th time
• The German has been a pivotal part of the Catalans' success since Xavi returned
• The goalkeeper recently matched the record for the most clean sheets in La Liga

Barcelona goalkeeper, Marc-Andre ter Stegen and striker, Robert Lewandowski, are probably the only of the team's regular starters who are keen to be on the pitch next week against Celta Vigo.

La Blaugrana will travel to an undoubtedly raucous Balaidos with little on the line, but it could be a record-breaking year for ter Stegen.

The German international shared his thoughts after matching a La Liga record for the most clean sheets in a season, following another shut-out against Real Mallorca on Sunday.

Ter Stegen now has 26 perfect games for the season, equalling the milestone previously held by Deportivo goalkeeper, Paco Liaño in the 1993-94 season.

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The shot-stopper said he was proud to match the record but also hoped he could do one better in Barcelona’s final game of the season.

Speaking to Barca TV, he said:

"It is obvious that, if we look at the numbers, the season is extraordinary and historic. I have felt very good throughout the season, but I am also happy for my teammates. Achieving these numbers makes me very proud to play for a club like Barça," he said.

Ter Stegen described the achievement of keeping 26 clean sheets as 'crazy'.

"Having achieved it makes me very happy; it was very difficult to achieve it. The last games we suffered a lot in defence, but in the end, the prize has arrived. Now, the goal is to overcome it. Once you are there, you have to attack it."

The German goalkeeper said this was a mission for him and the whole team.

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"I have to admit that now I am calmer, reaching these heights and not equaling the record would have been very hard."

Ter Stegen will claim the record outright if he keeps a clean sheet in Barca’s final game of the season.

However, he will need to be wary of a desperate Celta Vigo, who are fighting for their lives at the bottom of the table and still face the possibility of relegation.

Ter Stegen on Barcelona’s wage

Ahead of another chaotic transfer window and financial troubles, ter Stegan said he was reluctant to discuss anything related to wage cuts this summer.

According to Football Espana, Barcelona have asked their players to cuts or defer wages down the line in recent seasons to help balance their tricky books.

Lately, making these changes to player pay has appeared to be less about the survival of the Spanish club and rather about opening space in the salary limit.

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Barcelona fans hail Ter Stegen

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Barcelona fans hailing ter Stegen for his consistently great performances throughout this campaign.

The German goalkeeper has produced numerous masterclass displays by saving numerous opposition chances throughout the season.

This has not gone unnoticed, with fans across social media applauding ter Stegen for his role in Barcelona coasting to another La Liga title.