Barcelona goalie, Marc-André ter Stegen has been removed from his position as club captain. After having back surgery at the end of July, the 33-year-old last played for his nation in June.
His conflict with Barcelona is reportedly a result of his refusal to give the team access to his medical records, which would enable them to sign new players based on how long he is out.
Although La Liga regulations stipulate that a player must be out for at least four months in order to be deemed a long-term absentee, Ter Stegen recently announced on social media that he would be out for three months.
England striker Marcus Rashford, who is on loan from Manchester United, and goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol were among the La Liga champions’ summer additions.
Barcelona said in a statement that “Following the disciplinary proceedings opened against player Marc-André ter Stegen, and until this matter is definitively resolved, the club, by mutual agreement with the sporting management and coaching staff, has decided to temporarily withdraw his role as first-team captain.”
“During this period, the duties of first captain will be assumed by the current vice-captain, Ronald Araujo,” they continued.
Since joining Barcelona from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2014, Ter Stegen has made over 400 appearances for the team. His accolades include six La Liga titles and a Champions League championship.
