Marc-Andre ter Stegen revealed that he is “deeply grateful and proud” after experiencing “unforgettable moments” at Barcelona, with the goalkeeper joining Girona on loan for the rest of the season.

Ter Stegen joined Barca in 2014 from Borussia Monchengladbach, winning six LaLiga titles during his time at the club and lifting the Champions League in his first campaign.

Since joining La Blaugrana ahead of the 2014-15 season, only Jan Oblak (181) has kept more clean sheets in the Spanish top-flight than Ter Stegen (128 in 291 games), while the German goalkeeper has also made the third-most saves in that time (727).

Ter Stegen has made just one appearance this season, which came in a Copa del Rey tie against Guadalajara, with Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny both ahead of him in the pecking order.

Ther Germany international was also temporarily stripped of his captaincy at the start of the current campaign after he refused to share his medical data with LaLiga following a back procedure.

In a statement he released on X, Ter Stegen said: “Today is my last day this season with my teammates and the staff at FC Barcelona, and I truly have mixed feelings.

“So many memories and emotions are running through me right now. For nearly 12 years, this club, and especially this locker room, has been my home. A place where I’ve grown as a player and as a person, and where I’ve lived unforgettable moments.

“I feel deeply grateful and proud. I love this club, this city and this region. They carry a feeling inside me that will never fade. Your support over all these years has been incredible, thank you from my heart.”

Ter Stegen will be looking to help keep Girona in LaLiga, with the side currently five points above the relegation zone, while also making a case to make Germany’s World Cup squad.

The 33-year-old did not feature in their World Cup qualifiers due to his injury, with Oliver Baumann taking his place between the sticks.