FC Barcelona and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are caught in a major conflict that is heading towards a dead end unless both sides agree to negotiate – a scenario that, for now, neither party is willing to entertain.
The goalkeeper and the club remain locked in a standoff that appears increasingly likely to end up in court.
Joan Laporta furious
Now, according to AS, Ter Stegen’s actions have angered Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who believes the club captain has acted in bad faith.
The goalkeeper underwent a second back surgery last month, after previously announcing on social media that he expected to be sidelined for three months.
Barça, though, expect the recovery period to be longer, and the idea is for the club to use the salary space freed up by his long-term injury to register Joan Garcia.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 12: Marc Andre Ter Stegen of FC Barcelona looks on prior to the Joan Gamper Trophy match between FC Barcelona and AS Monaco at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on August 12, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Ter Stegen’s actions have angered Laporta. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
However, Ter Stegen has refused to sign the consent to share his medical report with La Liga’s Medical Commission, which would determine his absence and decide whether Barça can use his absence to register other players.
As such, Laporta is angry with Ter Stegen, believing that he is acting in bad faith to complicate the efforts to register Joan Garcia.
Legal team busy
Although Barcelona were initially open to holding a meeting with Ter Stegen, that position has now changed. The club has decided not to initiate any further talks. If the player wishes to start a dialogue, they are willing to listen, but will not make the first move.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s legal department is now working on two fronts: first, to determine whether the player is contractually allowed to refuse to sign the authorisation; and second, to pursue disciplinary action.
The Catalans have opened a disciplinary file against Ter Stegen, and all communication channels are currently severed. It seems unlikely he will play for the club again, even after recovery.