Barcelona have removed Marc-André ter Stegen from his role as team captain as tensions escalate between the club and the German goalkeeper over a fitness-related contractual dispute.
The club confirmed the development in an official statement released on Thursday, saying, “As a consequence of the disciplinary proceedings initiated against player Marc-André ter Stegen, and until such proceedings are definitively resolved, the club… has decided to temporarily remove him as captain of the first football team.”
Barcelona have named Uruguayan defender Ronald Araújo, the team’s vice-captain, as Ter Stegen’s replacement pending the outcome of the investigation.
The disciplinary proceedings are reportedly linked to the 33-year-old goalkeeper’s refusal to be medically classified as a long-term injury absentee under La Liga guidelines. Local media reports suggest the club had hoped to officially register Ter Stegen as unavailable for an extended period in order to reduce their official wage bill—an increasingly urgent matter as the club struggles to meet financial fair play (FFP) requirements ahead of the new La Liga season.
Ter Stegen recently opted to undergo back surgery, effectively ruling him out for several months. However, his refusal to sign the mandatory release form granting La Liga access to his medical data has prevented Barcelona from securing the necessary salary adjustments.
Barcelona’s decision to discipline Ter Stegen comes just weeks before the partial reopening of the newly renovated Camp Nou, a major project that has put additional strain on the club’s finances.
Reports indicate the club is currently exploring options to reinforce its goalkeeping department. Summer signing Joan Garcia, 24, and veteran Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, 35, who filled in last season during Barcelona’s title-winning campaign, are now top contenders for the starting position.
The fallout marks a significant turning point in Ter Stegen’s career at the club. A member of Barcelona’s 2015 UEFA Champions League-winning squad under Luis Enrique, he is the last remaining player from that era. His position now appears to be under threat not only on the pitch but also in contract terms.
Under La Liga regulations, players who withhold required medical disclosures could face stiff penalties, including contract termination.
