.png)
Barcelona have reinstated Marc-André ter Stegen as first-team captain, closing the chapter on a brief but intense dispute over the goalkeeper’s injury status and medical documentation.
The controversy began when the club temporarily removed the armband from the Germany international last Thursday, citing an ongoing disciplinary case. Tensions had flared after reports emerged that Ter Stegen, 33, refused to sign a consent form allowing Barcelona to send details of his recent back surgery to LaLiga’s Medical Committee. The club, working under strict financial fair play regulations, was seeking to classify the injury as “long-term,” which would have freed up a significant portion of his wages for player registrations.
At the centre of the issue was the goalkeeper’s recovery timeline. Ter Stegen publicly stated he expected to return in three months, but LaLiga rules require a minimum four-month absence to apply the salary relief provision. Barcelona had hoped to use that rule to register recent signings, including goalkeeper Joan García, signed from Espanyol in July, and Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford.
“FC Barcelona announces that, following the disciplinary proceedings opened against player Marc-André ter Stegen, and until this matter is definitively resolved, the club, in agreement with the sports management and the technical staff, has decided to temporarily remove him as captain of the first team,” read the club’s initial statement. “During this period, the duties of first-team captain will be assumed by the current vice-captain, Ronald Araújo.”
Ter Stegen, who also underwent a second surgery on July 29 in Bordeaux for a lingering lumbar problem, responded with a detailed public statement outlining his side of the story.
Ter Stegen’s Statement
“These past few months have been especially difficult for me, both physically and personally. Like any player, after suffering an injury, my only priority has always been to return to the field as soon as possible, motivated solely by the desire to help the team and do what I love most: compete.
In recent weeks, many things have been said about me, some of them completely unfounded. Therefore, I feel it is necessary to express my version of events with respect, but also with clarity.
The decision to undergo surgery was made after consulting with medical professionals and was fully approved by the Club, always with the goal of prioritizing my health and my long-term playing career. These goals are, of course, fully aligned with those of FC Barcelona, with the aim of being available as soon as possible to continue fighting for titles. I also publicly announced the estimated recovery period, which was given to me by top medical experts and always in coordination with the Club.
I would also like to make something clear, following certain speculations: all of the Club's new signings and contract renewals took place before my surgery. Therefore, at no point could I have thought that my unfortunate situation, having to undergo another operation, was necessary to register other teammates whom I deeply respect and am looking forward to sharing the locker room with for many seasons. Any other interpretation seems to me both unfair and inaccurate.
Throughout my career, I have always tried to conduct myself with professionalism, respect, and commitment to the crests I’ve represented. I have deep affection for FC Barcelona, this city, and its people, who have supported me over so many years. My commitment to these colors remains absolute.
I understand that difficult moments can create tension, but I trust that through dialogue and responsibility, we will be able to resolve this situation constructively. I am fully willing to cooperate with the Club’s management to settle this matter and provide the required authorization.”
Just hours later, Barcelona confirmed that the goalkeeper had signed the authorisation to send his medical report to LaLiga, leading to his immediate reinstatement as captain.
Club Statement on Resolution
“The Club announces that the player Marc-André ter Stegen has signed the authorisation necessary for the Club to send La Liga the medical report relating to his surgery. The disciplinary case has been closed and the player is captain of the first team once again with immediate effect.”
The decision means Barcelona could potentially reclaim at least 50% of Ter Stegen’s salary under LaLiga’s injury rules if his absence exceeds four months, though the player maintains he will return in three.
While tensions have eased, the episode comes at a challenging time for the Catalan side. Eight days before their title defence opener against Mallorca, they still have five players awaiting registration, including Rashford, García, and veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny.
Ter Stegen, whose contract runs for another three years, insists his priority remains unchanged: recovering swiftly and competing for the No. 1 spot, both at Barcelona and for Germany at the 2026 World Cup.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @mterstegen1
