Barcelona have stripped keeper Marc-André ter Stegen of the club captaincy following disciplinary proceedings against the Germany international.
The 33-year-old, who last played for his country in June, underwent back surgery at the end of July.
Reports suggest that his dispute with Barcelona stems from his unwillingness to allow the club to share his medical data with La Liga, which could permit the club to register new players depending on the length of his absence.
Ter Stegen recently posted on social media that he would be out for three months, whereas La Liga rules require a player to be sidelined for at least four months to be considered a long-term absentee.
The La Liga champions’ summer signings have included keeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol and England striker Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United.
In a statement, Barcelona said, “Following the disciplinary proceedings opened against player Marc-André ter Stegen, and until this matter is definitively resolved, the club, by mutual agreement with the sporting management and coaching staff, has decided to temporarily withdraw his role as first-team captain.”
They added, “During this period, the duties of first captain will be assumed by the current vice-captain, Ronald Araujo.”
Ter Stegen has made over 400 appearances for Barcelona since joining from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2014, and his honours include winning the Champions League and six La Liga titles with the club.
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