Barcelona Captain Reveals Surgery Decision and Drops Major Hints About Comeback Date
The ongoing Marc-André ter Stegen situation at Barcelona persists, as the club's captain has revealed he will undergo spinal surgery within the next few days.
The German shot-stopper has been experiencing back discomfort since representing his nation in the UEFA Nations League matches during early June. Following extensive deliberation regarding potential non-surgical treatments, Ter Stegen cannot avoid the surgical procedure.
Ter Stegen used social media platforms to reveal his surgical decision and expressed gratitude to Barcelona supporters for their backing.
"This day represents a personally challenging moment for me," Ter Stegen stated. "From a physical and athletic standpoint, I feel exceptionally prepared, though regrettably I cannot escape the discomfort. Following thorough consultations with FC Barcelona's medical staff and outside specialists, the most efficient and secure path toward complete recovery involves spinal surgery."
Recent acquisition Joan García is expected to become the future primary goalkeeper and should receive starting opportunities. Wojciech Szczęsny represents another alternative following his contract extension after securing three titles during the previous campaign.
"Following my previous spinal procedure, I returned to action after 66 days—nearly two months; this occasion, medical professionals estimate approximately three months will be required as a safety measure, to eliminate any potential complications," Ter Stegen continued.
The three-month recovery period Ter Stegen mentions carries significant implications. García—the preferred choice to begin as goalkeeper for the 2025–26 season—remains unregistered for La Liga participation due to Barcelona's economic difficulties.
Barcelona might utilize a regulation allowing them to transfer 80% of Ter Stegen's wages to register García, similar to last year when injured Andreas Christensen's salary facilitated the registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor.
For this strategy to succeed, Ter Stegen would need to remain unavailable for a minimum of four months. Should Ter Stegen return within three months, this approach becomes impossible. While Barcelona's official statement regarding their captain's forthcoming surgery omits a specific recovery timeframe, Ter Stegen's declaration sparked considerable speculation.
The Ter Stegen situation seems far from reaching its resolution.