FC Barcelona is facing an unprecedented internal conflict with goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen (33), who has refused to sign the medical consent form that would allow the club to submit his injury report to LaLiga's Medical Commission.
Without Ter Stegen’s signed approval, Barça cannot unlock 80% of his salary under LaLiga’s financial fair play rules. This prevents the registration of Joan Garcia, the first-choice goalkeeper, ahead of the season start.
Barça had requested a face-to-face conversation with Ter Stegen after his return from medical treatment to align on next steps, but the player responded firmly rejecting the request to sign the release form.
Relations reportedly soured further when Ter Stegen announced his own surgery and estimated a 3-month recovery on social media, contradicting the club’s view that recovery would last at least 4–5 months, qualifying him for a long-term injury exemption.
🚨 BREAKING: Ter Stegen has refused to give his approval for the club to send his medical report to La Liga — Barça has opened a legal case. Without the player’s consent, the situation is on a total stoppage. @ffpolo #FCB ⚠️🔴🔴
— Reshad Rahman (@ReshadFCB) August 5, 2025
Medical Privacy vs Club Obligation: The Legal Grey Area
While players legally have the right to protect their private medical data, Barça argues that Ter Stegen’s contractual obligations include cooperation that supports the club’s sporting and financial operations.
The refusal marks a first in club history. In similar past cases, players like Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araújo cooperated with the process, enabling Barça to register new players like Dani Olmo and Iñigo Martínez.
Club Turns to Legal Services, Disciplinary Action on the Table
According to Mundo Deportivo, the club has now escalated the matter to its legal team to consider opening disciplinary proceedings.
If deemed appropriate, Ter Stegen could face internal sanctions, pending approval by the board of directors.
The club believes Ter Stegen’s stance is hurting both the institution and his teammates, especially Joan Garcia, whose registration is blocked without access to the injured captain's salary for fair play adjustments.
