Marc-André ter Stegen Issues Statement After Losing Barcelona Captaincy

Marc-André ter Stegen released a statement after FC Barcelona stripped him of the captaincy and opened a disciplinary case against him last Thursday. Here is the full text from the German goalkeeper.

Ter Stegen’s Statement

“These past few months have been especially difficult for me, both physically and personally. Like any player, after suffering an injury, my only priority has always been to return to the field as soon as possible, motivated solely by the desire to help the team and do what I love most: compete.

In recent weeks, many things have been said about me—some of them completely unfounded. Therefore, I feel it is necessary to express my version of events with respect, but also with clarity.

The decision to undergo surgery was made after consulting with medical professionals and was fully approved by the Club, always with the goal of prioritizing my health and my long-term playing career. These goals are, of course, fully aligned with those of FC Barcelona, with the aim of being available as soon as possible to continue fighting for titles. I also publicly announced the estimated recovery period, which was given to me by top medical experts and always in coordination with the Club.

I would also like to make something clear—following certain speculations: all of the Club's new signings and contract renewals took place before my surgery. Therefore, at no point could I have thought that my unfortunate situation—having to undergo another operation—was necessary to register other teammates whom I deeply respect and am looking forward to sharing the locker room with for many seasons. Any other interpretation seems to me both unfair and inaccurate.

Throughout my career, I have always tried to conduct myself with professionalism, respect, and commitment to the crests I’ve represented. I have deep affection for FC Barcelona, this city, and its people, who have supported me over so many years. My commitment to these colors remains absolute.

I understand that difficult moments can create tension, but I trust that through dialogue and responsibility, we will be able to resolve this situation constructively. I am fully willing to cooperate with the Club’s management to settle this matter and provide the required authorization.”

Barcelona Strips Ter Stegen of the Captaincy

FC Barcelona announced last Thursday that it had temporarily stripped Marc-André ter Stegen of the captaincy due to an open disciplinary case against the German goalkeeper. Until the matter is resolved, Ronald Araujo will assume the role of the team’s first captain.

The decision was made in agreement with the sporting and coaching staff, according to the club’s official statement.

Ter Stegen visited the Joan Gamper Training Ground that same day for a routine medical check on the lumbar injury that has affected him since 2023. He underwent a second surgery on July 29 in Bordeaux while the team was on tour in Asia.

Tension Over Medical Documentation and Registration Rules

Prior to the surgery, Ter Stegen estimated a three-month recovery, a timeline that did not sit well with the club, which is hoping his absence stretches beyond four months. That would allow Barcelona to free up 80% of his salary and register Joan García as a long-term injury replacement.

The situation escalated when Ter Stegen refused to sign an authorization allowing Barça to submit his medical report to LaLiga’s Medical Committee for evaluation. That refusal triggered further tension—just eleven days before the LaLiga season begins.

As a result, Barcelona removed the captaincy from the German international, who still has three years left on his contract with the club.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Ter Stegen has no plans to give up. He aims to return in three months and compete for the starting spot with Joan García and newly signed Wojciech Szczesny. His ultimate goal: to be Germany’s starting goalkeeper at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.