Barcelona is considering removing the captaincy from Marc-André ter Stegen, the goalkeeper who is reluctant to leave the club. Spanish newspapers report this as a move to pressure the 33-year-old keeper to depart Barcelona. The club now wants the goalkeeper, who has played for them for the past 10 years, to transfer to another club before the start of the next season. This is because they have decided to make the newly acquired Spanish goalkeeper, Iñaki Peña, their first-choice keeper for the upcoming season.
However, ter Stegen is not inclined to leave the club. He wants to remain Barcelona’s goalkeeper to secure his position as Germany’s national goalkeeper for the World Cup to be held in America next year. Nevertheless, Barcelona wants, Barcelona wants to let him go for three reasons. Firstly, selling him would free up significant space in the salary budget. Secondly, the club doesn’t believe ter Stegen can return to his former excellent form due to recent major injuries. Thirdly, they have confidence in Peña.
Ter Stegen was given Barcelona’s captaincy last season. Although discussions about removing the armband from him have taken place, the final decision will be made by the German coach, Hansi Flick. If the armband is taken from him, midfielder Frenkie de Jong is the most likely to become Barcelona’s captain. Ronald Araujo and Raphinha would then serve as vice-captains. In addition to these two players, Spain’s defender Iñigo MartÃnez is set to be named as the third vice-captain.
If ter Stegen leaves Barcelona, he will demand a payout. This would involve receiving his remaining three years’ salary in one lump sum. However, Barcelona is not easily agreeing to this and is reportedly putting pressure on ter Stegen to leave the club, according to Spanish media. Two English clubs, Manchester United and Chelsea, have shown interest in ter Stegen.
