Barcelona Strip Ter Stegen of Captaincy Amid Internal Conflict

FC Barcelona have officially stripped Marc-André ter Stegen of the captain’s armband, naming Ronald Araújo as temporary captain. The decision comes in the wake of a reported dispute between the German goalkeeper and the club over medical documentation related to his injury recovery.

Following recent back surgery, Ter Stegen publicly announced a three-month recovery timeline. However, Barcelona had planned to submit documents indicating a longer absence — up to five months — in order to reclaim 80% of his salary under La Liga registration rules. The goalkeeper allegedly refused to sign the necessary paperwork and has since cut off direct communication with the club.

As a result, La Liga denied Barça’s request to free up funds to register new players. In response, the club has opened disciplinary proceedings and canceled a planned meeting with the player.

In an official statement, Barcelona described the move to remove Ter Stegen from captaincy as a “temporary measure,” coordinated with the coaching and sporting departments.

Araújo will now wear the armband, starting with the upcoming Joan Gamper Trophy match against Italian side Como, coached by former Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fàbregas. The Catalan club will then kick off their La Liga season on August 16 with an away fixture against RCD Mallorca.