Barcelona is enjoying a successful season, currently leading La Liga with 30 points, six ahead of rivals Real Madrid. Their advantage grew after a significant 4-0 victory over Madrid in the recent Clasico.
According to the Catalan newspaper “Sport,” coach Hansi Flick has not only identified standout young talents from La Masia, like Casado and Bernal, but has also revitalized underutilized players who are now crucial to the team.
One notable example is Inigo Martinez, who nearly left the club during the summer due to limited opportunities under former coach Xavi Hernandez. However, after discussions with Flick, he chose to stay and has emerged as a key figure in Barcelona’s defense.
Now 33, Martinez has adapted well to Flick’s defensive approach, forming a strong partnership with young defender Pau Coparsi this season. Flick regards Martinez as his top discovery, stating, “Things would not have gone this way in Barcelona without him.”
The report highlights that Barcelona has conceded only 10 goals in 11 La Liga matches, with four goals coming in the one match Martinez missed against Osasuna, which ended 4-0. He is instrumental in executing Flick’s offside trap and aggressive defensive strategy, maintaining pressure on opponents throughout the game.
Additionally, Martinez has demonstrated excellent passing skills, boasting a 92.13% accuracy rate over ten league matches.
