REPORTS: Barcelona have removed Marc-André ter Stegen from the captaincy this summer!

Barcelona find themselves entangled in a growing controversy as the club has removed Marc-André ter Stegen from the captaincy in the wake of a serious clash over his medical report. The dispute began after the German goalkeeper underwent back surgery in July, triggering a tense standoff with the club hierarchy.

At the core of the issue lies the club’s request for Ter Stegen to sign off on his medical details regarding expected recovery time. Barcelona aimed to submit an official report to La Liga’s Medical Committee to classify his absence as long-term (at least four months), a classification that would allow them to exclude up to 80% of his salary from th

However, Ter Stegen publicly declared via social media that his recovery would last approximately three months, a timeframe insufficient for the club to benefit from the long-term injury provision. His refusal to sign off on the medical report further escalated tensions as it stalled Barcelona’s efforts to register new signings under Financial Fair Play rules.

Unable to proceed without consent, the club responded by opening formal disciplinary proceedings against their captain. In a rare move, Barcelona temporarily stripped Ter Stegen of his armband, designating vice-captain Ronald Araujo as interim captain, pending resolution of the dispute.

The unfolding disagreement prompted strong reactions from Ter Stegen, who issued a heartfelt public statement. He stressed that his recovery estimate was made alongside medical experts and in coordination with the club, rejecting suggestions that his announcement was a strategic ploy. He reaffirmed his loyalty, professionalism, and deep connection to Barcelona and its supporters (“I love you, Culers!”).

Meanwhile, the dispute has broader implications. Key summer signings—including Joan García, Marcus Rashford, and others—are now facing potential registration delays, jeopardizing Barcelona’s readiness for the season

In recent days, both club insiders and players reportedly hoped for a peaceful resolution. La Liga and the players’ union, AFE, have publicly supported Ter Stegen, criticizing the disciplinary process and citing the goalkeeper’s right to medical privacy. The German Football Federation (DFB) has also expressed backing for Ter Stegen ahead of Germany’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

A breakthrough occurred today: Ter Stegen agreed to sign the necessary authorization for the club to submit the medical report. This move led to the closure of the disciplinary proceedings and his instantaneous reinstatement as first-team captain. Barcelona confirmed that the leadership change will now be reaffirmed via a team vote.

This rapid turn of events underscores the delicate balance between a player’s personal rights and a club’s financial imperatives. While Ter Stegen’s cooperation has removed an immediate administrative obstacle, the dispute highlights the ongoing fiscal challenges facing Barcelona as they navigate FFP restrictions and squad planning ahead of the new La Liga season.