The Barcelona veteran earned his place in the squad after impressing Hansi Flick in training
Barcelona's squad for next season is probably a long way from where it will be by the end of August, and little is certain about how it will turn out. One of the names that seemed like they might be on the way out was Inigo Martinezbut the Basque defender earns his place in the team.
Ace for Sport, Martinez is the player who has impressed Flick the most in training, and he chose him as a point of reference for the standards he wants. The 33-year-old arrived in good shape, imposed himself, and completed the exercises in training earlier. He also gave advice to the younger players, and Flick found himself enjoying himself with the centre-back.
Official: FC Barcelona has reached an agreement with Los Angeles FC for the transfer of Mbacke, who already played on loan at Barça Atlètic last season. He will sign until 2026. @FCBarcelonaB
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 22, 2024
In addition to Martinez's form, Barcelona will try to bring Joao Cancelo back on loan from Manchester City this summer. Apart from that, however, they won't be signing any more defenders this summer.
Martinez was a candidate to leave the club this summer, as he is not registered for next season, and it could be easier to move on. But after Ronald Araujo's long injury, the fact that Eric Garcia and Pau Cubarsi will arrive late from the Olympics, Martinez's place in the side looks much more secure. At the start of the season, only Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde will be available currently as alternatives to the centre-back, and the latter is often employed on the right wing.
