'Germans have that behaviour' - Marc-Andre ter Stegen hit with bizarre criticism and told he 'left a lot to be desired' as ex-Real Madrid goalkeeper weighs in on Barcelona captaincy

Barca are considering clearing out Ter Stegen of the club captaincy amid ongoing tension surrounding his conduct post-surgery. The German goalkeeper is at the centre of a disciplinary dispute after reportedly refusing to sign his medical report following back surgery, a move that has sparked backlash within the club. Former Real Madrid and Valencia goalkeeper Canizares has weighed in on the situation, criticising his behaviour and suggesting his attitude is not befitting of a club captain.

During an appearance on El Partidazo de COPE, Canizares criticised Ter Stegen’s recent conduct amid Barcelona’s internal disciplinary case, questioning whether the German goalkeeper is fit to continue as club captain: "A captain represents the players in a match and at the negotiating table when it comes to bonuses or a dispute. He can't be lazy, create a bad atmosphere, or be selfish. He has to be an example. He has to encourage everyone to commit and perform well, to be a team player, to have a good vibe, and to try to resolve conflicts with the club or teammates. But of course, if you create the conflict... If you have an open war with the club, it makes no sense for that player to be the captain. It's just the opposite; the captain would now be there to resolve Ter Stegen's conflict."

Canizares also made a pointed comment about the German’s mentality and his behaviour when sidelined due to injury: "When he hasn't played, his behaviour has left a lot to be desired. But like many Germans, they have that behaviour. They have to be starters. We goalkeepers are guilty of being selfish because if we don't start, we don't play all year."

Ter Stegen’s leadership at Barca is under scrutiny at a time when the club is attempting to foster unity under manager Hansi Flick. While his performances on the pitch have often been praised, the off-field dispute adds pressure to an already delicate squad environment. Meanwhile, Barca's players return to training ahead of their Joan Gamper Trophy clash against Como on August 10. 

Barca’s decision-makers are yet to conclude whether Ter Stegen will continue wearing the armband, this could signal a reshuffle in the dressing room hierarchy, possibly handing more responsibility to younger figures like Gavi, Ronald Araujo or Frenkie de Jong. For Ter Stegen, the focus will also be on rehabilitation and repairing trust at the club.