(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Barcelona Reportedly Strips Ter Stegen of Captaincy Amid Internal Dispute
BARCELONA – Tensions appear to be rising between FC Barcelona and veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, as reports suggest the club has decided to remove him from the first-team captaincy due to an ongoing internal disciplinary matter.
According to TV3, the decision comes amid what the club perceives as Ter Stegen’s non-cooperative stance in recent weeks. With a disciplinary case still open, Barcelona leadership believes it would be inappropriate for the German international to continue holding a leadership role within the team.
🤝 Club Prioritizing Unity and Leadership
Sources say the club is concerned that keeping Ter Stegen in a captaincy role while under investigation could present a conflict of interest, especially as the position demands full commitment, trust, and leadership — both on and off the field. Newly appointed head coach Hansi Flick reportedly supports the move, aiming to maintain harmony and focus within the dressing room.
📄 Medical Report Dispute at the Heart of the Issue
The conflict reportedly escalated when Ter Stegen declined to sign a recent medical report issued by the club’s doctors. Instead, he has deferred the matter to his representatives, prompting the club to explore legal alternatives for moving forward without the player’s signature.
The club’s Medical Commission, however, is said to be reluctant to evaluate or act on the report without the player’s explicit consent, adding a further layer of complexity.
⚖️ Players’ Union Steps In
The AFE (Association of Spanish Footballers) has reached out to Ter Stegen to offer support during this process. The union is reportedly prepared to provide legal assistance and guidance, referencing similar past cases where players faced internal club issues.
🚨 What’s Next?
While no official public statement has been made by Barcelona or Ter Stegen as of now, this development could mark a significant chapter in the goalkeeper’s future at the club — a player who has been a cornerstone of the team since 2014.
The situation continues to evolve, and fans will be keeping a close eye on Barcelona’s next steps as the new season approaches.
