Real Madrid sets example to Barcelona in Ter Stegen case | OneFootball

Real Madrid continue to prove why they are a club unlike any other. On and off the pitch, the European giants have always led by example with loyalty, class, and support for their players.

Recent developments at Barcelona have only highlighted the stark contrast between the two institutions.

According to recent reports, Barcelona are considering launching disciplinary action against their captain, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, after he refused to sign a medical report prepared by the club.

The document was intended to be submitted to La Liga to facilitate the registration of a replacement player.

Ter Stegen, who recently underwent back surgery, did not give consent to share his medical records, a decision that has now been handed over to Barcelona’s legal department.

The situation raises serious questions. Should a club resort to legal threats against a player who is recovering from a long-standing injury?

Does stripping a player of his captaincy for prioritising his medical privacy reflect the values of a top football institution?

Real Madrid set the gold standard

Compare this to how Real Madrid have handled similar and even more severe injury cases in recent years.

Real Madrid renewed Dani Carvajal’s contract a day after his injury. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

When Dani Carvajal suffered a significant knee ligament injury against Villarreal, the club responded by renewing his contract until 2026, just one day after the injury. There was no hesitation. No pressure. Just support.

Then there is Eder Militaão and David Alaba – both victims of serious ACL injuries. Militao, in particular, has suffered the same injury twice in consecutive seasons.

Yet, at no point have Real Madrid considered forcing them out or cutting costs at their expense.

Alaba, while currently surplus to requirements and one of the highest earners at the club, continues to receive full support from the board and coaching staff.

Thibaut Courtois is another perfect example. Despite his recent injury issues, the Belgian goalkeeper is in line for a contract extension.

This is how a footballing institution behaves when one of their own is down – with patience, respect, and a long-term vision.

At a time when Barcelona are using the threat of captaincy removal and legal action to pressure Ter Stegen into compliance, Real Madrid show what loyalty looks like.

Injuries are a part of football, but how clubs react to them defines their values.

While Barça scramble to manage their finances by pushing out key figures during difficult moments, Madrid continue to stand tall, proving once again that success is not just about trophies, but about how you treat your people.