FC Barcelona is reportedly contemplating removing Marc‑André ter Stegen from the captaincy role as the club prepares for the 2025–26 season.
According to journalist Fernando Polo at Mundo Deportivo (via OneFootball), “Barcelona ‘set to strip Ter Stegen of captaincy’ amid internal discontent”. Sources indicate that both the club’s board and coaching staff are in agreement about this decision, citing mounting frustration with the German goalkeeper’s off-field attitude.
Report gatheredthat Barcelona board members want Marc‑Andre ter Stegen to be removed as club captain even if he stays, and adds that Inigo Martinez is considered by some members as a potential alternative given his experience and rapport with the coach.
Ter Stegen has already lost his starting position to Joan Garcia, who was signed this summer, and now Wojciech Szczęsny is expected to remain as first backup, pushing Ter Stegen to third choice, raising questions over his long-term future at Camp Nou.
Ter Stegen is not part of the Barcelona squad that will travel to Asia for their pre-season tour. This comes after the German decided to undergo surgery for his back problems.
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Ter Stegen will be out for three months and will miss some matches for Barcelona in the new season.
Regarding his official view, Ter Stegen expressed his pride in the club but also acknowledged his difficult situation following a recent back surgery decision:
“I wear the colors and jersey of FC Barcelona with great pride, whether on or off the pitch, in moments of success and in difficult times. Today is a personally difficult day for me. Physically and athletically, I feel in very good shape, although unfortunately I am not free from pain.”
“After intensive discussions with the FC Barcelona medical team and external experts, the quickest and safest way for me to fully recover is through back surgery. After my last operation on my back, I returned to the pitch after 66 days—almost two months; this time, the doctors believe about three months will be necessary as a precaution, to avoid any risks.”
The decision to strip Ter Stegen of one of the captaincy roles is seen as a symbolic turning point under manager Hansi Flick, signaling a clean break and renewed leadership structure. Potential successors being considered, besides Iñigo Martinez, include Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres, and even Lamine Yamal, though opinions differ over the suitability of the young players
Barcelona still lists Ter Stegen under contract thugh 2028 and reportedly will only part ways if he openly requests a mutual termination.