Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s Defiant Response to Barcelona Captaincy Removal

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has spoken out for the first time since being stripped of the club’s captaincy, addressing weeks of speculation surrounding his injury and his relationship with the club’s management.

Barcelona’s Injury Dilemma and La Liga Rules

Ter Stegen, who has been with Barcelona for over a decade, underwent back surgery in July after suffering an injury during preseason training. According to La Liga regulations, if a player is ruled out for more than four months, the club can temporarily free up 80% of his salary from the wage bill to register a replacement — in this case, summer signing Joan García.

However, reports suggested that Ter Stegen exercised his legal right to withhold medical details, preventing La Liga from making an official ruling on the length of his absence. The 33-year-old further complicated matters by publicly stating he expected to return in just three months, falling short of the required timeframe.

Tensions Lead to Captaincy Removal

On Thursday, Barcelona confirmed that Ter Stegen had been removed from his captaincy role and was facing “disciplinary proceedings.” This decision came during a period of already heightened tension between the player and the club.

Ter Stegen’s Statement on the Situation

Responding on Friday afternoon, Ter Stegen released a lengthy public statement in which he called the last few weeks “a difficult time, both physically and personally.”

“I understand that difficult moments can generate tension, but I trust that, through dialogue and responsibility, we can resolve this situation constructively,” Ter Stegen wrote. “I am fully willing to collaborate with the club’s management to resolve this matter and to provide the requested authorization.”

Rejecting Media Speculation

The German international strongly denied suggestions that he had tried to block Barcelona’s attempts to register García.

“All of the club’s signings and contract renewals were completed before my surgery,” Ter Stegen explained. “At no point did I think my unfortunate situation would be necessary for registering other teammates whom I deeply respect. Any claim otherwise is unfair and inaccurate.”

A Pledge of Loyalty to Barcelona

Throughout his statement, Ter Stegen emphasized his commitment to Barcelona, its supporters, and the city itself.

“Throughout my career, I have always acted with professionalism, respect, and commitment toward every badge I’ve worn,” he said. “My love for FC Barcelona and its fans has never wavered, and it never will. I remain fully committed to these colors.”

He closed with a message to the fans:

“A lot may have changed, but one thing never will: I love you, Culers!”