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Ter Stegen at Odds with Barcelona Over Surgery for Back Injury

Ter Stegen faces back surgery amid Barca disagreement. Can they resolve the conflict without lasting consequences?
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Ter Stegen Faces Surgery Decision Amidst Barcelona Disagreement

Barcelona captain Marc-André ter Stegen is in disagreement with the club over the best course of action for his persistent lower back pain. The German goalkeeper has been experiencing discomfort for several days, which flared up after international duty with Germany in the UEFA Nations League in June. The club's medical staff, along with external consultants and German national team doctors, are reportedly recommending surgery, which could sideline him for approximately four months. However, ter Stegen is hesitant to undergo another operation, given his recent history of injuries.

Club Pushes for Surgery, Ter Stegen Seeks Alternatives

Reports indicate that Barcelona is keen on ter Stegen undergoing surgery, with multiple medical opinions supporting this approach as the only solution if the pain does not subside. Ter Stegen, however, is wary of going under the knife again, having undergone knee surgery less than a year ago that kept him out for a significant portion of last season. He also had back surgery in December 2023. He has requested more time to assess his condition before making a final decision.

Decision Deadline Looms for Barcelona's Goalkeeper

According to AS, ter Stegen faces a deadline of July 24 to decide whether or not to proceed with the surgery. His absence from pre-season training, limited to gym work, and the upcoming Asian tour highlight the severity of the situation. This decision carries significant implications for both the player and the club.

FIFA Compensation Could Benefit Barcelona

Barcelona has notified FIFA of ter Stegen's injury, which occurred during international duty. Under FIFA's Club Protection Program, Barcelona could receive approximately €20,548 per day in compensation if ter Stegen is sidelined for more than 28 days. This could potentially total over €2 million if he is out for the full four months projected for recovery after surgery.

Timeline of Ter Stegen's Injury and Decision Process

The situation has unfolded rapidly in recent weeks:

  • June 2025: Ter Stegen first experiences back pain following his involvement in the UEFA Nations League with Germany.
  • Early July 2025: Due to the persistent back pain, ter Stegen is unable to participate in pre-season training with Barcelona.
  • July 17, 2025: Reports emerge suggesting that surgery may be necessary to address the issue.
  • July 24, 2025: Ter Stegen is expected to make a final decision regarding whether to undergo surgery.
  • December 2023: Ter Stegen previously underwent back surgery.
  • Late 2024: Ter Stegen had surgery on his right knee, sidelining him for most of the last season and returning in May 2025.

Stakeholders Involved in Ter Stegen's Injury Saga

Several key figures and entities are involved in this situation:

  • Marc-André ter Stegen: The Barcelona captain and primary goalkeeper, whose health and future with the club are directly impacted.
  • FC Barcelona: The club's medical staff, management, and coaching staff, including new manager Hansi Flick.
  • Hansi Flick: The new Barcelona manager, whose relationship with ter Stegen is reportedly strained.
  • Joan Garcia & Wojciech Szczesny: Other goalkeepers in the squad.
  • La Liga's Financial Fair Play: Barcelona's financial situation influences their decisions regarding player registration and compensation.
  • FIFA: The governing body that provides compensation to clubs for injuries sustained by players on international duty.

Sources Cite Disagreement and Financial Implications

Various reports shed light on the complexities of the situation:

  • AS reports the July 24 deadline for ter Stegen's decision.
  • Mundo Deportivo and Sport indicate that Barcelona are keen on ter Stegen undergoing surgery and that various medical opinions recommend it.
  • Jijantes reported on ter Stegen considering surgery and being ruled out for around four months.
  • Sources within the dressing room describe ter Stegen as "acting strange for days, complaining about everything" since returning from holiday.
  • Barcelona plans to use the "long-term injury rule" to register new signing Joan Garcia by utilizing 80% of ter Stegen's salary if he is sidelined for over four months (as per Mundo Deportivo and Barca Universal).
  • FIFA's Club Protection Program could provide Barcelona with approximately €20,548 per day in compensation.

Potential Consequences of Ter Stegen's Decision

The disagreement between ter Stegen and the club could have several consequences:

  • Internal Tension: A public disagreement over treatment could create tension within the club.
  • Squad Registration: If ter Stegen opts for surgery and is sidelined long-term, Barcelona could use the "long-term injury rule" to register new signing Joan Garcia and potentially other players.
  • Ter Stegen's Future: Another lengthy injury layoff could complicate ter Stegen's future at Barcelona and his chances of remaining Germany's number one.
  • Goalkeeping Hierarchy: The situation could solidify Joan Garcia's position as the primary goalkeeper.
  • Financial Implications: While surgery means paying Ter Stegen's salary, FIFA compensation and the ability to register other players using his salary cap space could provide some relief.

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