Marc-Andre ter Stegen's injury clouds Barcelona's plans as pre-season tour wraps up

As the squad prepares to return to Catalonia, a critical issue looms over the club: the evaluation of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen's recent back surgery.

The German international's recovery timeline remains uncertain, and the club are awaiting his approval to share medical details with La Liga's Medical Commission, which will determine the duration of his absence.

The Blaugrana are keen for a face-to-face meeting between Ter Stegen and their medical staff, expected to take place next week in Barcelona following the team's return from Japan and South Korea. "The club prefer an in-person discussion to ensure clarity," a source close to Barcelona's medical team said.

This step is crucial, as La Liga regulations require the player's consent to submit medical reports, a standard procedure tied to data protection laws. Barcelona have faced no issues with this process in the past, and they expect Ter Stegen to comply without hesitation.

The medical report, compiled by the professionals who performed the surgery on 29 July at the Sports Clinic Bordeaux Merignac under the supervision of Dr Amelie Leglise, will be pivotal.

If Ter Stegen's absence exceeds four months, Barcelona could leverage La Liga's long-term injury rules to register new signings, including Marcus Rashford, Joan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, and Gerard Martin. A shorter recovery period, however, could complicate these plans, particularly for Joan Garcia, the newly signed goalkeeper expected to take the starting role.

Tensions have emerged between Ter Stegen and the club's sporting directorate. The former Borussia Monchengladbach star reportedly dismissed suggestions of leaving Barcelona and claimed his recovery would take just three months, a timeline that could block the registration of Joan Garcia.

"We need to align expectations and ensure the best for the team," a club official said, hinting at upcoming talks to ease the strained relations.

Barcelona's medical staff, not sporting director Deco, will lead discussions with Ter Stegen to secure his approval for the medical report.

The outcome of these talks will shape the club's strategy as they head into a crucial season.