Barcelona Explores Legal Options After Ter Stegen’s Refusal

FC Barcelona is considering various legal avenues regarding goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who has declined to authorize the sharing of his medical data with LaLiga. This situation arises after the 33-year-old underwent lower back surgery on July 29, 2023. The club’s ability to secure a significant portion of his salary for registration purposes hinges on LaLiga’s decision following the submission of an injury report.

According to sources, Barcelona could potentially free up at least 50% of Ter Stegen’s salary under LaLiga’s emergency injury provision, which applies when a player is sidelined for a minimum of four months. However, the club is unable to share Ter Stegen’s medical information without his consent, complicating their efforts.

Disciplinary Action Considered

Barcelona sporting director Deco had planned discussions with Ter Stegen upon the team’s return from their Asia tour on Tuesday. Unexpectedly, Deco received a certified fax from the goalkeeper explicitly stating his refusal to sign the necessary consent form. Media outlets in Spain have reported that the club is contemplating disciplinary measures against Ter Stegen, although this information has yet to be confirmed by ESPN sources. They acknowledge that the club is exploring various alternatives and have not dismissed the possibility of imposing a fine on the player.

Ter Stegen’s decision to undergo surgery is viewed as a setback for Barcelona, particularly as the club had aimed to solidify his position as the starting goalkeeper for the upcoming season. With the signing of García and the renewal of veteran contracts, the club intends for Ter Stegen to reclaim his role while also aspiring to be the starting goalkeeper for Germany in the 2026 World Cup.

Implications for Team Registration

While Barcelona anticipates Ter Stegen being out for at least four months, the goalkeeper has expressed optimism about returning to action within just three months. If his recovery exceeds the four-month mark, Barcelona could potentially release him from his contract, enabling them to register García. In recent comments, Barcelona president Joan Laporta acknowledged that utilizing LaLiga’s emergency injury provision may be the “most direct path” to registering summer signings but indicated that the club is also weighing other strategies.

With only 11 days remaining before the start of their LaLiga title defense against Real Madrid, the situation remains critical for Barcelona as they navigate these complexities surrounding their goalkeeper’s health and contractual obligations.