Ter Stegen Faces Sanctions as Barcelona Navigates Financial Fair Play

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, 33, is facing potential sanctions from the club and La Liga after refusing too allow Barcelona to submit his medical information regarding a recent back surgery. This move complicates Barcelona’s efforts to comply with financial fair play regulations and register new players for the 2025-2026 season.

The Catalan club reportedly hoped to leverage ter Stegen’s extended absence-following the surgery-to create financial leeway under La Liga’s strict financial rules.By declaring him unavailable for a prolonged period, Barcelona aimed to reduce its salary obligations and free up funds to register recent acquisitions, including promising young talent Joan Garcia, who signed this summer, and veteran Wojciech Szczęsny, whose contract was extended.

Though, ter Stegen’s refusal to consent to the disclosure of his medical details has effectively blocked this strategy. The situation is further complicated by Barcelona’s ongoing financial difficulties and the continued construction of Camp Nou, their iconic stadium, which remains temporarily closed.

According to reports from Ligactu on August 5, 2025, Barcelona could potentially save 80% of ter Stegen’s salary during his absence if his injury report were submitted to La Liga. The club believes ter Stegen’s actions could inflict both sporting and economic damage.

ter Stegen, a key figure from Barcelona’s 2015 treble-winning team under manager Luis Enrique, now risks severe penalties under La Liga regulations, potentially including contract termination. The Liga, headquartered in Madrid, Spain, has been increasingly stringent in enforcing financial fair play rules across its member clubs.

This incident highlights the growing pressure on European football clubs to maintain financial stability while competing at the highest level. Barcelona, already burdened by significant debt, is actively seeking ways to navigate these challenges as it rebuilds its squad and prepares for the reopening of camp Nou, slated for late 2026.

The situation also raises questions about player rights and the balance of power between clubs and their athletes in the context of financial regulations.

Source: Le360 (with AFP), August 5, 2025

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