Barcelona have announced the removal of Marc-Andre ter Stegen from his role as first team captain of the club following the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings against the Germany international.
Ter Stegen’s future at Barcelona has grown increasingly uncertain following the arrival of Joan Garcia, who is seen as a threat to his starting role. Tensions escalated further after Ter Stegen suffered a serious back injury during training.
Although the German goalkeeper publicly stated he expects to be out for three months, Barcelona had hoped for a four-month absence. That extended timeline would have allowed the club temporary room to register new signings like Garcia and Marcus Rashford.
However, Ter Stegen has withheld his medical records from the club, a move that has reportedly shocked Barcelona officials, who view it as an unwillingness to support their efforts to register key reinforcements, including his potential replacement.
In a statement released on Thursday, Barcelona said: “Following the disciplinary proceedings opened against player Marc-Andre 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. During this period, the duties of first captain will be assumed by the current vice-captain, Ronald Araujo.”
Since arriving from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2014, Ter Stegen has racked up over 400 appearances for Barcelona, winning the Champions League and six La Liga titles during his time at the club.
Despite the club’s stance, reports in the Spanish media claim Ter Stegen retains the support of a number of the Blaugrana squad members, including Frenkie de Jong, Ferran Torres and Gavi.
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