The match in Seoul didn't just leave soccer conclusions. It also served to confirm important moves inside the locker room. The season is starting soon and the issue of the armband is beginning to take its final shape.
Flick has avoided making public statements about this topic, but there are already clear signs. The departure of former captains opens the door to new leadership. Several first-team players have already shown their opinion on the matter.
It's not just about hierarchy, but also about commitment, consistency, and connection with the project. The locker room needs a respected, balanced figure with a long history at the club. Among those who remain, one meets all those requirements.
After the final whistle in Korea, some footballers spoke to the media to comment on the match and other topics. It was then that the issue of the captaincy came up unexpectedly.
The voice of the locker room is starting to be heard
There were no doubts or hesitations. The answers were natural, without evasions or empty phrases. Both De Jong and Ferran Torres spoke clearly and gave full support to a specific name.
Their words aren't random. Both have shared many seasons with the main candidates for the armband. What they say reflects the consensus that exists internally.
Barça is going through a period of transition. Key players have left and others have lost prominence due to injuries or technical decisions. The new leader must represent stability amid the change.
That's what the group wants to convey to the coaching staff: they don't want doubts or improvisation. For them, the choice is obvious and is based on merits accumulated over many years.
A profile that combines experience, professionalism, and quiet leadership
The chosen person has been present at every key moment for Barça in the last decade. He has witnessed crises, titles, rebuilds, and constant changes. Despite everything, he's always kept the same level.
He's not a player who shouts or seeks cameras. He leads through consistency, seriousness, and daily commitment. For his teammates, his voice carries as much weight in the locker room as on the field.
He has been an undisputed starter under every coach who has come through the club. In addition, he has represented Barça at official events, press conferences, and institutional moments. He is, in many ways, a captain without an armband.
De Jong, with his usual clarity, was direct when speaking about him. The same happened with Ferran, who agreed with the group's overall assessment.
A name no one disputes: the captaincy already has an owner
Beyond the symbolic aspect, there are also sporting reasons. The chosen one has been decisive in numerous recent seasons. He has kept the team afloat in critical phases and has earned the respect of European soccer.
In this new season, moreover, he'll have a double responsibility: to perform as always and to serve as a role model for the younger players. Not just in matches, but also in daily life. The model of professionalism that everyone values.
Finally, after days of rumors, the name that has received the locker room's support is clear. Marc-André ter Stegen is the chosen one. Both De Jong and Ferran made it clear after the match in Seoul.
“For me, Marc is the team's captain,” said the Dutchman. Ferran added: “Because of his experience and everything he represents, I think it'll be him.” At Barça, the decision has already been made. The armband… already has an owner.