This Sunday, the presidential elections of FC Barcelona took place, in which Joan Laporta is seeking to remain at the helm of the club. Thousands of blaugrana members went to the team’s facilities to cast their vote, including several footballers, as all players automatically become club members when they sign their contracts.

Among them was Marc-André ter Stegen, who is currently out on loan but arrived at Camp Nou as just another member with the intention of taking part in the vote. However, the German goalkeeper experienced a rather peculiar situation: he was unable to cast his ballot.

An Unexpected Issue With the Electoral Register

When he arrived at the stadium, Ter Stegen caught the attention of those present. Despite being on loan at Girona, his commitment to Barcelona has never been in doubt, and he wanted to fulfill his responsibility as a member by participating in elections that will define the club’s future.

However, when he approached the ballot box and presented his membership card, a problem arose. The goalkeeper had to wait several minutes while officials reviewed his information, until they finally informed him that his name did not appear on the electoral register.

The issue lies in the fact that, although the club automatically makes its players members, they must still complete certain administrative procedures themselves to formalize their registration. In Ter Stegen’s case, that process apparently was not completed.

Candidate Víctor Font commented that the payments corresponding to the goalkeeper’s membership were not up to date, which would explain why he was unable to take part in the vote.

Other Footballers Who Were Able to Vote

In contrast, another loaned player who was able to vote was Héctor Fort, currently with Elche. The footballer approached the ballot box and was able to cast his vote without any issue.

Among the club figures who did participate in the elections were the current women’s Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí, as well as two blaugrana legends: Sergio Busquets and Xavi Hernández.

For Marc-André ter Stegen, the situation is particularly uncomfortable. In addition to the recent injury that will keep him off the pitch for nearly four months, this unusual administrative episode now adds to his problems after preventing him from participating in an important moment for the institution. Without a doubt, the German goalkeeper is going through a rough stretch.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube