Marc-Andre ter Stegen has taken an unexpected stance, which has thrust Barcelona into a heated conflict, challenging the club.
Barcelona’s efforts to navigate their financial constraints have hit a significant snag, complicating their plans to register new signing Joan Garcia.
The club is grappling with La Liga’s stringent salary cap rules, which require creative solutions to maintain competitiveness.
As the team returns from their pre-season tour, an unexpected issue has emerged involving one of their most reliable players, goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Ter Stegen has refused to allow Barcelona to share his post-surgery medical report with La Liga’s medical committee.
This document is crucial for the club to classify its injury as a long-term absence, which would unlock financial relief under La Liga’s fair play regulations.
By designating Ter Stegen’s injury as long-term, potentially lasting five months or more, Barcelona could use 80% of his salary to create a fair play margin, enabling the registration of Garcia.
However, data protection laws require the player’s consent to share medical information, and Ter Stegen has withheld his approval, halting the process.
The club’s attempts to resolve the issue have been met with resistance.
Barcelona reached out to Ter Stegen, requesting a meeting to discuss the situation and seek his cooperation, but the German goalkeeper firmly declined to sign off on sharing his medical details.
This stance has caught the club off guard, as no player in a similar situation has previously refused such a request.
The refusal has prompted Barcelona to involve their legal team, who are now evaluating potential disciplinary actions.
If deemed necessary, and with board approval, Ter Stegen could face internal sanctions for his decision.
While Barcelona respects Ter Stegen’s right to privacy, they argue that his refusal could cause significant sporting and financial harm, particularly impacting teammates like Garcia.
The club emphasizes that being part of Barcelona comes with responsibilities to support the team’s collective goals.
As the situation unfolds, Barcelona must balance their financial strategy with maintaining harmony within the squad, making this a critical moment for both the club and their trusted goalkeeper.
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