Barcelona 'set to strip Ter Stegen of captaincy' amid internal discontent | OneFootball

Barcelona are poised to strip Marc-André ter Stegen of his captaincy role, according to a report by Mundo Deportivo journalist Fernando Polo.

Both the club’s board and coaching staff are said to be in unanimous agreement on the decision, citing growing frustration with the German goalkeeper’s attitude and behaviour behind the scenes.

According to Polo's report, there is “anger” within the club over Ter Stegen’s recent conduct, although specific incidents have not been made public. On Thursday the 33-year-old announced via social media that he must undergo surgery on a back injury and is likely to be out for at least three months.

Potential successors emerge

Polo also reports that four names are under serious consideration to replace Ter Stegen in the captaincy group: Iñigo Martínez, Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres, and 18-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal.

The inclusion of Yamal, still in the very early stages of his senior career, has divided opinion among fans. While some hail the teenager’s maturity and on-pitch leadership, others argue that it’s premature to burden him with such responsibility.

Reactions to Ferran Torres’s candidacy have also been mixed, with several supporters questioning his form and standing within the squad. Meanwhile, veterans Lewandowski and Martínez are seen as more traditional choices, offering experience and leadership.

A statement move

The decision to remove Ter Stegen from the captaincy appears to be more than a symbolic gesture. It signals a new chapter under manager Hansi Flick and a board keen to reassert control over dressing room dynamics. The message is clear: no player is untouchable, no matter their seniority or past contributions.

Ter Stegen has been with the club since 2014, amassing over 400 appearances and playing a crucial role in multiple title wins. However, this latest development suggests that his influence at the club may now be waning.

With the start of the 2025/26 season fast approaching, Barcelona appear ready to move in a new direction—one that prioritises unity, discipline, and a fresh leadership structure.

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