Barcelona have officially removed goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen from his role as first-team captain due to ongoing disciplinary issues involving the Germany international.
The 33-year-old, who underwent back surgery in late July, is reportedly at odds with the club over his refusal to allow Barcelona to share his medical information with La Liga. The data could potentially influence the club’s ability to register new signings under league financial regulations, depending on the expected duration of his absence.
Ter Stegen recently posted on social media that he expects to be sidelined for three months. However, La Liga rules require a player to be unavailable for a minimum of four months to be considered a long-term absentee — a key distinction when it comes to registering replacements.
In a statement released on Thursday, Barcelona confirmed the decision:
“Following the disciplinary proceedings opened against player Marc-André ter Stegen, and until this matter is definitively resolved, the club, by mutual agreement with the sporting direction and the coaching staff, has decided to temporarily withdraw his role as first-team captain.”
Uruguayan defender Ronald Araújo, who currently serves as vice-captain, will assume the captaincy in the interim.
Ter Stegen has made over 400 appearances for Barcelona since joining from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014, playing a crucial role in the club’s Champions League triumph in 2015 and winning six La Liga titles.
Barcelona’s summer business includes the signings of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia and Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford on loan, as the Catalan side navigates financial fair play restrictions ahead of the new season.
