La Liga: Barcelona reinstate Marc-Andre ter Stegen as captain a day after stripping him of it | Football News
Barcelona has reinstated Marc-Andre ter Stegen as team captain on Friday after resolving a fitness dispute that led to disciplinary action against the German goalkeeper following his back surgery in July 2025. The 33-year-old had initially been stripped of his captaincy on Thursday over his alleged refusal to release medical details.The conflict arose when Barcelona attempted to have Ter Stegen classified as a long-term injury by La Liga, which would allow them to deduct part of his wages from their official wage bill. Local media reported this was part of the club’s ongoing struggle to meet Spanish financial fair play regulations.The situation was resolved late Friday when Ter Stegen signed the required paperwork, prompting Barcelona to release a statement declaring “The disciplinary file is considered closed and the player regains the first team captaincy with immediate effect.”Ter Stegen defended himself on Instagram, stating: “In recent weeks, many things have been said about me – some of them entirely unfounded. Therefore, I feel it is necessary to express my version of events respectfully, yet clearly.”He further emphasised his willingness to cooperate: “I am fully willing to collaborate with the club’s management to resolve this matter and to provide the requested authorisation.”The goalkeeper addressed the club’s financial concerns, explaining: “I would also like to clarify that all of the club’s signings and contract renewals were completed prior to my surgery. The decision to undergo surgery was fully approved by the club, and always with the intention of prioritising my health and long-term sporting career which of course are fully aligned with those of FCB to have myself available on the pitch as soon as possible to keep winning trophies.“He added: “My commitment to these colors remains absolute,” while noting his surgery should not affect the “registration of other colleagues whom I greatly respect and look forward to share locker room with for many seasons.”Ter Stegen’s position at Barcelona faces competition from summer signing Joan Garcia, 24, and 35-year-old Wojciech Szczesny, who earned a contract extension after his performance during last season’s successful Liga campaign.
