Barcelona have temporarily removed Marc-André ter Stegen as captain following a dispute over his injury status. The club opened disciplinary proceedings after the German goalkeeper announced a three-month recovery period, which conflicts with La Liga's requirement of at least four months to be considered a long-term injury for wage relief.
The controversy stems from Barcelona's financial constraints. The club signed goalkeeper Joan García from Espanyol last month and hoped to sell ter Stegen to free up wages for García and Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford. However, ter Stegen required further surgery on a knee ligament tear, preventing his departure in the summer window.
The club asked ter Stegen to sign long-term medical leave that would allow them to clear 80% of his wages until mid-season, complying with La Liga's financial fair play rules. His public announcement of a three-month absence irked management, as it did not meet the minimum four-month rule. Ter Stegen has been replaced as captain by vice-captain Ronald Araújo for the time being.
This incident highlights Barcelona's ongoing financial struggles, which have hindered their ability to register new signings for several consecutive seasons. The club begin their La Liga title defence on 16 August against Mallorca.
