FC Barcelona are reportedly on the verge of making a major leadership shake-up, as internal discussions intensify over the possibility of removing Marc-André ter Stegen as the club’s captain ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The relationship between the Catalan club and the veteran German goalkeeper has reportedly deteriorated, following a statement made by Ter Stegen on Thursday in which he announced he would be undergoing surgery and facing up to three months on the sidelines.
Club sources suggest the timing and manner of the announcement — made publicly without full alignment with club management — did not sit well with senior officials at Camp Nou.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s hierarchy and coaching staff, led by head coach Hansi Flick, are now re-evaluating the captaincy role.
The belief growing within the club is that Ter Stegen, though respected for his years of service, may no longer be the most suitable figure to lead the team on and off the pitch during a critical rebuilding phase.
Ter Stegen was named Barcelona’s first captain last season by Flick, heading a five-man leadership group that also included Ronald Araújo, Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha, and Pedri.
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However, with his extended injury absence and the club’s desire for stronger on-field leadership presence, the armband could soon change hands.
Mundo Deportivo further reports that four senior players are being seriously considered as potential replacements: experienced striker Robert Lewandowski, centre-back Iñigo Martínez, rising star Lamine Yamal, and winger Ferran Torres.
Of the four, Lewandowski appears to be a strong contender given his leadership credentials, European pedigree, and consistent presence in the starting XI.
However, Lamine Yamal, despite his youth, is reportedly seen by some in the club as a long-term leader due to his maturity and impact.
The move to strip Ter Stegen of the captaincy would mark a significant shift in Barcelona’s dressing room dynamics, especially given the German goalkeeper’s long-standing service to the club since his arrival from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014.
While no official decision has been made, sources close to the club indicate that Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco are expected to finalize the new leadership structure before the start of the new La Liga season in August.
With the team set to embark on pre-season preparations without its current captain, Barcelona’s leadership vacuum may soon be filled by a new face — potentially signaling a broader cultural reset under Flick’s second year in charge.