Barcelona’s Ter Stegen makes announcement that could cost the club dearly

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen has confirmed he will undergo back surgery and miss three months of action.

Despite the ordinary-looking nature of his announcement, his timing and transparency may have just complicated the club’s financial plans.

Ter Stegen’s decision to reveal the duration of his absence has reportedly caused tension within the club’s hierarchy.

Barcelona, who are already operating above La Liga’s salary cap, had hoped to temporarily de-register the German under the long-term injury rule.

That move would have freed up a significant portion of his salary, reportedly up to 80%, and allowed the club to register new signings Marcus Rashford and Joan Garcia.

However, by publicly confirming a shorter three-month absence, the option to invoke the injury exception becomes difficult, if not impossible.

His timing is viewed as frustrating by those within the club who were quietly trying to find financial loopholes. With Rashford’s €14 million salary and Garcia’s arrival to consider, Barcelona are once again stuck navigating tight financial waters.

The surgery announcement comes at a sensitive time for Ter Stegen, who is already under pressure following Garcia’s arrival and Wojciech Szczęsny’s contract renewal.

Reports suggest head coach Hansi Flick may not view the German as untouchable anymore, and whispers of a falling out between player and manager are growing louder.

This latest development could accelerate a long-term shift in the club’s goalkeeping plans. While Ter Stegen remains committed and optimistic in his message to fans, his role at Barcelona may be entering a new, more uncertain phase.