FC Barcelona are set to receive a major financial boost due to the long-term injury of their first-choice goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, a development that not only affects their squad depth but also offers the club strategic economic relief.
Highlights:
- A substantial payout from FIFA.
- Additional budget flexibility.
- A registered backup goalkeeper for the 2025–26 season.
Ter Stegen has been out of action since June due to persistent back problems picked up during international duty. The situation has worsened, and he is now seriously considering surgery, which could keep him sidelined for up to four months.
Financial Windfall from FIFA
Under FIFA’s Club Protection Programme, clubs are eligible for compensation when players are injured while on international duty for more than 28 consecutive days. Barcelona could receive over €2 million from FIFA — around €20,548 per day — for Ter Stegen’s absence. The maximum possible compensation per injury stands at €7.5 million, capped at 365 days.
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Barcelona’s ongoing battle with La Liga’s salary cap rules means this injury might actually offer relief. If Ter Stegen undergoes surgery, the club can unlock up to 80% of his wages to comply with domestic Financial Fair Play regulations, allowing them to register Joan Garcia as a new goalkeeper.
However, this move hasn’t come without controversy. Ter Stegen is reportedly unhappy about Garcia’s signing, fearing for his long-term position in the team.
Barcelona’s Finances
Barcelona’s finances have been under scrutiny for the past few seasons. Every bit of wage relief and compensation helps the club navigate tight spending limits. This development provides them with:
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Everything now hinges on Ter Stegen’s decision regarding surgery. If confirmed, Barcelona will immediately activate both FIFA’s compensation scheme and La Liga’s wage relief rule, giving them a temporary but much-needed financial cushion.