Barcelona are expected to receive an official decision from La Liga’s medical panel today regarding the injury status of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, according to Mundo Deportivo. The verdict could play a key role in shaping the club’s early-season strategy.
The medical assessment will determine how long the German shot-stopper will be sidelined. That timeline is crucial for Barcelona’s squad planning and could open the door to registering a new signing.
Ter Stegen recently underwent surgery after struggling with a long-term back issue. While he initially estimated a three-month recovery, recent reports suggest he could be out for at least four months possibly longer. Club doctors and specialists agree the recovery process will likely be lengthy.
If he's officially classified as a long-term injury, Barcelona will be allowed to use a portion of his salary cap to register a new player. This flexibility could prove vital during the final stretch of the transfer window.
One name high on the club’s list is new goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who they’re keen to register in time for the La Liga opener against Real Mallorca.
The percentage of Ter Stegen’s salary Barcelona can use depends on the length of his absence. A four-month layoff would allow them to utilize 40% of his salary cap hit. If the recovery period extends to five months or more, that figure jumps to 80% a situation similar to what the club experienced with Andreas Christensen last season.
With that added salary space, Barcelona could potentially finalize all pending registrations. Without it, they’ll need to explore alternative options to balance the squad.
Losing Ter Stegen is undoubtedly a major blow for Barca his presence between the posts is difficult to replace. Still, today's decision from La Liga could give the green light for Joan Garcia to step in and help the team start the season with a renewed sense of confidence.
