Barcelona Remove Ter Stegen’s Captaincy Amid Disciplinary Dispute

Barcelona have removed Marc-André ter Stegen from his role as club captain following disciplinary action against the German goalkeeper, Sport360NG reports.

The 33-year-old, who last featured for Germany in June, underwent back surgery at the end of July. Reports in Spain suggest tensions arose after Ter Stegen declined to let the club share his medical records with La Liga. Such information could influence the league’s decision on whether Barcelona are permitted to register new signings based on his expected absence.

Ter Stegen recently stated on social media that he would be sidelined for three months. However, La Liga rules require a player to be out for a minimum of four months to qualify as a long-term injury.

Barcelona have strengthened their squad this summer, signing goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol and securing England striker Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United.

In a statement, the La Liga champions confirmed the decision:
“Following the disciplinary proceedings opened against Marc-André ter Stegen, and until this matter is definitively resolved, the club, in agreement with the sporting department and coaching staff, has decided to temporarily withdraw his role as first-team captain. Ronald Araujo, the current vice-captain, will assume captaincy duties in the meantime.”

Since joining from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014, Ter Stegen has made over 400 appearances for Barcelona, winning six La Liga titles and the Champions League.