(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Barcelona Reinstates Marc-Andre ter Stegen as Captain After Fitness Dispute
Barcelona has officially reinstated German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen as club captain, bringing an end to a short-lived dispute over his fitness.
The disagreement arose earlier this week when the club removed Ter Stegen’s captaincy and initiated disciplinary action after he reportedly refused to release medical details following back surgery in late July. Reports suggested the club considered classifying him as a long-term injury to reduce his wage bill under La Liga’s financial fair play regulations.
In a late-night announcement, Barcelona confirmed that the issue had been resolved after Ter Stegen signed the necessary documents. “The disciplinary file is considered closed and the player regains the first team captaincy with immediate effect,” the statement read.
Addressing the controversy on Instagram, Ter Stegen said, “Many things have been said about me in recent weeks – some entirely unfounded. I am fully willing to collaborate with the club’s management to resolve this matter.”
The goalkeeper also defended his decision to undergo surgery, stating it was approved by the club and aimed at ensuring his long-term fitness. “All of the club’s signings and contract renewals were completed before my surgery,” he added, rejecting suggestions that his absence was causing financial strain.
With the new La Liga season fast approaching, Barcelona continues to work on meeting financial fair play requirements to register new players. Ter Stegen’s position could face competition from summer signing Joan Garcia, 24, and veteran Wojciech Szczesny, 35, who stepped up during last season’s title-winning campaign.
The German shot-stopper assured fans his commitment to the club remains “absolute,” saying he looks forward to returning to the pitch and helping the team win more trophies.
