(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Barcelona Temporarily Relieves Marc-André ter Stegen of Captaincy Amid Fitness Dispute
FC Barcelona has announced that goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen has been temporarily relieved of his captaincy duties amid an ongoing internal issue concerning his fitness status.
In an official statement released Thursday, the club confirmed, “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.”
The captain’s armband will now be worn by Ronald Araújo, the Uruguayan defender who serves as vice-captain.
Dispute Over Injury Classification
According to local media reports, the dispute centers on Barcelona’s attempt to classify Ter Stegen, 33, as a long-term injury case under La Liga regulations. Such a move would allow the club to reduce a portion of his salary from the official wage bill — a key measure as Barcelona continues to navigate La Liga’s strict financial fair play rules ahead of the new season.
However, Ter Stegen has reportedly declined to sign a form that would release his medical information to La Liga, complicating the club’s efforts to meet compliance standards. His refusal comes shortly after he underwent back surgery in late July, following two injury-plagued seasons.
Squad Impact and Goalkeeping Changes
With Ter Stegen sidelined, 24-year-old Joan Garcia, a summer signing, and veteran Wojciech Szczesny, 35, are expected to share goalkeeping responsibilities. Szczesny has been rewarded with a contract extension after stepping up during last season’s title-winning campaign.
The German goalkeeper, a key figure at the club since 2014 and the last active player from Barcelona’s 2015 UEFA Champions League-winning squad, could face serious repercussions under league regulations — including potential contract termination — if the dispute remains unresolved.
Barcelona’s Financial Hurdles
Barcelona is also preparing to partially reopen the Camp Nou stadium this month following an extensive and costly renovation. The club’s financial situation remains challenging, and registering new signings remains a top priority before the new La Liga season begins.
