Barcelona to make a final decision on Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s captaincy after Gamper Trophy

The tension between Marc-Andre ter Stegen and FC Barcelona is at an all-time high. The club was not pleased with the statement the goalkeeper released regarding his injury and subsequent surgery.

In his statement, the German claimed he would be out for three months – a timeline that complicates Barça’s plans to use 80% of his salary to register Joan Garcia, since La Liga requires a minimum of four months out for it to qualify as a long-term injury.

Within the club, there are voices suggesting that Ter Stegen should be stripped of the captaincy for several reasons.

First, he will miss the initial part of the season. Second, he will effectively be the third-choice goalkeeper, and some believe it is not ideal for the captain to be someone who is not playing.

Moreover, the club feels that his statement did not serve the interests of the team, something they believe is unacceptable from a leader.

Captaincy decision after Joan Gamper Trophy

However, the matter will not be addressed until the end of the pre-season tour. According to SPORT, Ter Stegen’s captaincy will be decided after the Joan Gamper Trophy.

Traditionally, captains at Barcelona are selected via a squad vote, but there is speculation that the club may pressure Hansi Flick to intervene and remove the armband from the German goalkeeper directly.

Last season, Ter Stegen retained the captaincy despite being injured from September to late May. Upon his return, he expressed clear frustration with the club and insisted on regaining his starting spot – something Flick did not support.

The final decision will rest with the German tactician, known for prioritising balance and harmony within the squad, which he considers essential for success.

The current captains are Ter Stegen, Frenkie de Jong, Ronald Araujo, Raphinha, and Pedri. The players will also have their say, and it remains to be seen whether the current setup will continue or if a vote will be organised.

During the Gamper Trophy match, it is tradition for the captain to address the fans after the match to mark the start of the season.

Under normal circumstances, this would be Ter Stegen’s role, but due to his injury, it is expected that Araujo, currently the second captain, will fulfil this duty.

After that game, a decision will be made regarding whether the German will remain the captain of Barcelona’s first team.