Girona snap up Rubén Blanco to fill Ter Stegen-shaped hole
Former Marseille keeper Rubén Blanco joins Girona on a free transfer to provide cover after Marc-André Ter Stegen's devastating injury blow.
Facing a goalkeeping crisis after losing their winter window star signing Marc-André Ter Stegen to a serious injury just two matches into his loan spell, Girona have moved swiftly to shore up their options between the sticks.
Emergency signing
The Catalan outfit have snapped up Rubén Blanco, who’s been a free agent since terminating his contract with Marseille in January. The 30-year-old Spanish keeper provides much-needed depth to Míchel’s squad at a crucial point in their campaign.
Girona were left in a proper pickle after the German international’s injury, with only Paulo Gazzaniga and inexperienced Krapyvtsov available. Their B-team keeper Sergi Puig couldn’t step up due to age restrictions (not being under 25), leaving the club vulnerable to any further goalkeeping mishaps.
With the club still flying high in the table, the brass couldn’t risk going short in such a vital position. They’ve managed to find enough wiggle room in their wage structure to bring in the former Celta Vigo product.
Celta roots, limited Marseille role
Blanco spent most of his career at Celta before heading to Marseille on loan in 2022. The French club made the move permanent for €1.5 million, but the Spaniard struggled to establish himself:
- Just 12 appearances across three and a half seasons in France
- Injuries hampered his time at the Vélodrome
- Primarily served as a backup option
Club statement highlights
Girona’s official announcement praised Blanco’s qualities, noting his “security between the posts, excellent reflexes in close-range situations and good area management” as key attributes.
The club also highlighted his “experience in highly competitive contexts” and “tactical maturity” as valuable assets for the business end of the season.
Gazzaniga walking a tightrope
The signing comes at an opportune time with current number one Gazzaniga on four yellow cards for the season, leaving him one caution away from suspension. The Argentine has been booked for various offences including time-wasting, protests, and a confrontation with opponents.
He’s already served a suspension this season after seeing red in the opening fixture against Rayo Vallecano, and nearly talked himself into another dismissal against Espanyol after celebrating Vanat’s goal too enthusiastically in front of the home supporters.