The tension between Marc-André ter Stegen and FC Barcelona continues to escalate, but the German goalkeeper has now received a key show of support. The Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE) has publicly defended the player amid the disciplinary file opened by the club for refusing to sign a medical report intended for LaLiga.

Why Is Ter Stegen Refusing to Sign the Report?

The German goalkeeper has declined to authorize the club to share his medical records with LaLiga, a requirement for Barcelona to free up part of his salary under financial fair play regulations. His refusal is based on privacy rights, protected under Spain’s Data Protection Law and the Occupational Risk Prevention Law, both of which safeguard medical information.

The AFE emphasized that the player has not violated the club's disciplinary code and reminded that no employee is obligated to share personal medical data beyond notifying an employer of temporary incapacity.

What Is LaLiga’s Position on the Matter?

According to LaLiga sources, the player’s consent is mandatory to process the report and allow the club to register a replacement — using up to 80% of the injured player’s salary, as permitted by Article 107 of the financial regulations.

Barcelona, meanwhile, confirmed that its legal team is assessing "all possible scenarios", but for now, the process remains stalled.

What Consequences Could This Situation Have?

Ter Stegen’s refusal puts at risk the registration of recent signings, such as goalkeeper Joan García, and highlights growing internal friction between the club and its captain. Although a disciplinary file has already been opened, the AFE argues that it “has no legal standing.”

Meanwhile, Ter Stegen underwent surgery on July 29 in Bordeaux for a lower back issue, but the club has yet to officially disclose how long he will be sidelined — a crucial detail for activating the long-term injury clause.