Overview

• Barcelona will hold a first-team vote before the 2025–26 season to decide whether to remove Marc-André ter Stegen as captain, with coach Hansi Flick granted a say in the process.
• Ter Stegen’s independent announcement of a three-month recovery from back surgery fell short of the four-month absence needed to trigger La Liga’s emergency injury rule and register recent signings.
• President Joan Laporta, sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick agreed to pursue stripping ter Stegen of the armband after tensions over the timing and communication of his operation.
• Vice-captains Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Raphinha are the leading candidates to succeed ter Stegen if the squad withdraws his leadership role.
• Barcelona has ruled out a summer sale during his recovery and will defer any transfer until at least January, even as German media urge an exit to protect his World Cup prospects.