Barcelona Eyes FIFA Compensation Program After Ter Stegen's Season-Ending Injury
Marc-André ter Stegen remains unavailable for Barcelona's opening week of pre-season preparations while he considers undergoing surgical intervention for his persistent back problems.
Should the German shot-stopper decide to proceed with the operation, media sources suggest he may face a recovery period spanning four to six months. In such circumstances, Barcelona could benefit from a regulation allowing FIFA to cover a substantial portion of Ter Stegen's wages.
FIFA's Club Protection Program establishes that teams are eligible for financial support when their players sustain injuries during international service. Ter Stegen participated in Germany's UEFA Nations League finals campaign in June and began experiencing back discomfort shortly thereafter.
To qualify for program benefits, players must remain unavailable for over 28 consecutive days. Following this threshold, as reported by Mundo Deportivo, FIFA may provide Barcelona with €20,548 ($23,890) daily during Ter Stegen's absence. Should the goalkeeper's recovery extend beyond four months, Barcelona could potentially receive over €2 million ($2.3 million) from FIFA toward covering his salary costs.
This wouldn't mark Barcelona's inaugural receipt of FIFA financial assistance. During the previous two campaigns, FIFA provided the Catalans with monetary support following Gavi's ACL rupture in November 2023 and Ronald Araújo's groin injury sustained during Copa América.
Should Ter Stegen choose surgical treatment, Barcelona stands prepared to utilize a La Liga regulation permitting them to register new acquisition Joan García by transferring 80% of their captain's salary burden. Nevertheless, they would remain obligated to compensate Ter Stegen throughout his recovery, where FIFA's contribution would assist with the club's financial responsibilities.
The final decision regarding Ter Stegen's back condition will be determined shortly, though Barcelona has already informed FIFA of their intent to seek economic compensation should the goalkeeper face an extended absence.
Whatever the ultimate resolution, it's clear Barcelona is examining all available options to achieve compliance with La Liga and UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations.