Tensions have reached boiling point between FC Barcelona and their long-serving goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen and the situation is spiraling out of control.
According to multiple top-tier sources, the club attempted to schedule a face-to-face meeting with Ter Stegen yesterday to resolve rising internal disputes. But to their astonishment, the German keeper was nowhere to be found. He has allegedly refused to respond to calls or messages from club officials, leaving the Barcelona board increasingly alarmed and frustrated.
Barcelona’s response? Ruthless. The club’s hierarchy is reportedly taking a hardline stance and preparing to initiate formal disciplinary action against their vice-captain. They accuse him of acting in bad faith, specifically trying to obstruct the registration of newly-signed goalkeepers Wojciech Szczęsny and Joan García an act they consider not only unprofessional but potentially grounds for termination.
In a historic twist, Ter Stegen has now become the first player in La Liga history to refuse signing his club’s medical report, a document required by league authorities before any player can be officially cleared or ruled out. His refusal has thrown a legal wrench into Barça’s operations one that La Liga themselves say cannot be bypassed.
Inside sources at Camp Nou believe this rebellion was triggered by Hansi Flick’s decision to bench Ter Stegen in the final La Liga game of the season, a match that would have triggered a €3.5 million performance bonus in his contract. Days later, Barcelona signed Joan García and ever since, Ter Stegen has reportedly cut ties and turned against the club.
A senior Barcelona official is quoted as saying:
“He’s not fooling anyone anymore. Ter Stegen has clearly turned his back on this club.”
However, the situation isn’t so black-and-white. The Spanish Players’ Association (AFE) has stepped in to support Ter Stegen, reportedly assuring him that Barcelona have no legal right to discipline him over the medical dispute. This backing significantly complicates the club’s plan to take matters to court or pursue contract termination.
For now, La Liga has refused to process Barcelona’s medical report without Ter Stegen’s consent, causing major setbacks in squad registration ahead of the new season. Meanwhile, Barça maintains that they have everything “under control” and are confident they can move forward without breaching regulations.
As things stand, the battle lines have been drawn:
Ter Stegen has gone radio silent.
Barça are preparing for legal war.
La Liga is stuck in the middle.
And the dressing room is left in suspense.
This story is still unfolding but one thing is clear: A bitter divorce between Barcelona and one of their longest-serving stars may now be unavoidable.
Sources: @mundodeportivo @la_ser
