Catalan independence is discussed in the dressing room: Stegen

Barcelona’s German goalkeeper Ter Stegen said that Catalan Independence is discussed among the players in the Barcelona dressing room.

Spain’s central government imposed direct rule on the region after Catalonia parliament declared independence on Friday.

Speaking to German media WAZ, Ter Stegen said that he has followed the events in Catalonia since the independence referendum.

"I have read a lot about the subject. In the last two games we played, a large part of the city was closed due to protests. I see and I feel that the people are proud to be Catalan and that they want to be independent,” Stegen said.

“I've also seen protests from people that want to remain part of Spain, too. It's complicated as it has a lot to do with the feelings of people that have had to come a long way to make it to this pont. For that reason, I can't really judge what is happening."

"Of course the team deals with the matter of independence and the referendum. We have some players that have been born in Catalonia. Everyone has their own opinion and everyone respects each person's opinion."

Ter Stegen was lauded for his efforts on goal as the German came to Barca's rescue at the San Mames --stopping 17 shots from Athletic Bilbao.