FC Barcelona has taken a key step in its squad planning. On Friday night, the Catalan club officially sent LaLiga the medical report confirming Marc-André ter Stegen’s injury, after the German goalkeeper signed the document upon reconsidering his initial stance, according to a club source cited by EFE.

Ter Stegen’s signature was crucial for Joan García to be registered as the team’s new goalkeeper, with the aim of making his LaLiga debut for Barça this Saturday at Son Moix against Mallorca.

A decisive step to strengthen the squad

Now, LaLiga’s Medical Committee, made up of renowned trauma specialists, will be in charge of evaluating the case. A decision is expected within approximately 24 hours. If the German goalkeeper’s absence is estimated at four months, the club will be able to use up to 50% of his salary to register reinforcements. If the recovery period exceeds that time, the percentage would increase to 80%.

This situation would not only pave the way for Joan García’s registration. English forward Marcus Rashford could also benefit, as he would be cleared to be registered once LaLiga validates the club’s submitted report.

Other factors are also in play. The recent departure of Íñigo Martínez to Saudi side Al-Nassr, freeing up salary space, could open the door for the signing of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny and the registration of defender Gerard Martín, who has just renewed his contract with the club.

Additionally, this move could unblock Iñaki Peña’s situation. The goalkeeper, not in Hansi Flick’s plans, had remained in the squad as an insurance option in case García or Szczesny could not be registered. With the new scenario, his departure would become more feasible.

A relief for all parties

Ter Stegen’s decision to sign the document benefits not only the club and the players awaiting registration. It also grants the German a calmer recovery period after a turbulent start to the season, during which he even lost the captaincy. Now, he can focus on his rehabilitation, knowing that once he returns, he will remain a key figure between Barça’s posts.

With this move, Barcelona gains room in the market, players see their contractual situations resolved, and Ter Stegen finds relief amid the tensions that have marked recent weeks.