Barcelona is finally irritated by Ter Stegen and removes the goalkeeper’s captaincy
Veteran goalkeeper reportedly removed from leadership role as tensions rise behind the scenes
FC Barcelona has officially removed Marc-André ter Stegen from his role as club captain, signaling growing friction between the German goalkeeper and club leadership. The decision follows a series of disagreements and an extended injury layoff that has sidelined the veteran for much of the upcoming season.
According to journalist Fernando Polo of Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona made the decision on Wednesday after Ter Stegen failed to respond to the club’s request to sign medical documentation needed to deregister him from the La Liga squad. His absence reportedly threatens to complicate the club’s player registration process ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Club Loses Patience After Injury Setback
The 32-year-old is currently recovering from a long-standing back injury and is expected to undergo surgery, which could keep him out for four to five months. The club recently signed Joan García from Espanyol, who is expected to assume the No. 1 role this season, effectively relegating Ter Stegen to backup status.
While the medical deregistration is standard protocol for long-term injuries, Ter Stegen’s lack of cooperation reportedly angered club president Joan Laporta and intensified existing tensions between the player and Barcelona’s board.
Decision Sparks Locker Room Divide
Ter Stegen has been a respected figure at the club since his arrival in 2014 and took over the captain’s armband last season following Sergi Roberto’s departure. His demotion has caused internal friction, as several senior players remain loyal to the German international.
Both Gavi and Frenkie de Jong publicly expressed their continued support for Ter Stegen as captain in recent interviews, underscoring a disconnect between the players and the board’s decision.
Frenkie de Jong Tipped to Take Over
According to El Desmarque, Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong is the leading candidate to become Barcelona’s new captain. He is expected to be followed in the leadership hierarchy by Raphinha, Ronald Araújo, and Pedri. Gavi or Iñigo Martínez could be named fifth captain.
A Decorated Career at the Camp Nou
Ter Stegen has made 422 appearances for Barcelona, keeping 175 clean sheets and conceding 416 goals. He has won every major title with the club, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. His leadership and consistency have long been pillars of Barça’s success during a turbulent decade.
As the club undergoes another transition phase under new management, the future of one of its most decorated players remains uncertain.
