Marc-Andre ter Stegen breaks silence on FC Barcelona inscription controversy and loss of captaincy

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has found himself at the center of a controversy at FC Barcelona involving his registration status, which led the club to temporarily strip him of his captaincy. Following the incident, the German goalkeeper has broken his silence with an extended, heartfelt statement addressed to the club and fans.

The controversy began in late July when Ter Stegen underwent back surgery, reportedly without the club’s prior approval. A few days later, the goalkeeper announced his expected recovery timeline—a key factor for Barcelona, as they aimed to use 50% of his salary to register new signings like Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford.

However, the rule allowing this financial relief requires a minimum four-month recovery, while Ter Stegen’s estimate was just three months. As a result, Barcelona opened disciplinary proceedings against him and temporarily removed his captaincy, appointing Ronald Araujo as first captain in his place.

Ter Stegen breaks the silence

As tensions mounted, Ter Stegen released a statement on social media to address the situation and clear the air: “These past few months have been particularly difficult for me, both physically and personally… In recent weeks, many things have been said about me – some of them entirely un-founded. Therefore, I feel it is necessary to express my version of events respectfully, yet clearly.”

The goalkeeper clarified that the decision to undergo back surgery was made after consultation with medical experts and fully approved by the club. He also emphasized that the recovery timeline was communicated in coordination with Barcelona. Regarding the timing of the new signings, he said:

“I would also like to clarify – in light of certain speculation – that all of the Club’s signings and contract renewals were completed prior to my surgery, and therefore, at no point could I consider that my unfortunate circumstances with the new surgery I had to undergo would be necessary for the registration of other colleagues whom I greatly respect and look forward to share locker room with for many seasons,” Ter Stegen stated, rejecting the notion that he acted against the club’s interests.

Expressing his affection for the fans, Ter Stegen also extended an olive branch, hoping for a constructive resolution. “I understand that difficult moments can generate tension, but I trust that, through dialogue and responsibility, we can resolve this situation constructively. I am fully willing to collaborate with the Club’s management to resolve this matter and to provide the requested authorization,” he wrote.

According to Marca, the statement has been well received within the club, including among players, staff, and executives. Optimism is growing about finalizing the registration of new signings. In the meantime, Ter Stegen may face a lengthy wait, potentially over a year, before returning to the pitch for Barcelona.