Marc-Andre ter Stegen's Back Surgery Throws Up Barcelona Registration Dilemma

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Last Updated:July 29, 2025, 22:36 IST

FC Barcelona's goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen had back surgery in Bordeaux, causing fitness concerns. His recovery affects new signings.

FC Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen underwent back surgery on Tuesday to address issues in his lumbar region.

FC Barcelona confirmed the procedure in a statement, noting that it took place in Bordeaux and that the “evolution" of his injury would determine his availability.

“First-team player Marc ter Stegen has successfully undergone further surgery for his lower back problems, performed by Dr. Amelie Leglise under the supervision of the club’s Medical Services at Sports Clinic Bordeaux Merignac. He is unavailable for selection, and his recovery will determine when he can return," Barcelona said in a statement.

The surgery has sparked controversy not only regarding Ter Stegen’s fitness but also due to Barcelona’s fragile financial situation, which has so far prevented the club from registering summer signings Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford for La Liga due to financial fair play restrictions.

The club either needs to generate new income or reduce its wage bill to include Rashford and Garcia in the squad. If Ter Stegen is out of action for over four months, Barca will be able to use 80 per cent of his salary to cover the wages of the new arrivals, as the club did last season when Thomas Christensen suffered an ankle injury.

What Did Marc-Andre ter Stegen Say?

“Dear Culers,

I wear the colors and jersey of FC Barcelona with great pride, whether on or off the pitch, in moments of success and in difficult times. Today is a personally difficult day for me.

Physically and athletically, I feel in very good shape, although unfortunately I am not free from pain. After intensive discussions with the FC Barcelona medical team and external experts, the quickest and safest way for me to fully recover is through back surgery.

After my last operation on my back, I returned to the pitch after 66 days—almost two months; this time, the doctors believe about three months will be necessary as a precaution, to avoid any risks.

Emotionally, it hurts a lot not being able to support the team during this time. Fortunately, the rehabilitation is manageable and the road back is clear.

I will keep you updated on my recovery and I sincerely want to thank you all, dear Culers, for always being by my side.

Don’t worry—I’ll be back!

Yours, Marc"

The 33-year-old hinted at a challenge to the club last week when he announced the surgery, adding that he expected to be out of action for just three months. This would mean Barcelona would be unable to use this option to register its new signings.

The situation could lead to Barcelona submitting Ter Stegen’s medical report to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), which has a committee of experts that would determine the length of the goalkeeper’s probable absence.

Ter Stegen, the 33-year-old German, joined Barcelona in 2014 after spending a few years with Borussia Monchengladbach from 2010 to 2014. He has since won six La Liga titles and an equal number of Copa del Rey trophies with the club.

(With inputs from IANS)

Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha...Read More

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