"Interestingly, this would not be the first time Flick has experimented with Martin in central defence. After Inigo Martinez's departure, the manager tested Martin as a left-sided centre-back during training sessions and friendlies, and the results were encouraging. The youngster adapted well to the role, showing composure and positional awareness beyond his years. Those trials could now prove vital, as Flick considers all his options before Sunday's crucial clash against Celta Vigo."
"For the upcoming match, Ronald Araujo is the only centre-back who is fully fit. The Uruguayan has featured in Barcelona's last two games, against Elche and Club Brugge, and will once again anchor the defence. Meanwhile, Garcia completed the Champions League fixture with a broken nose and has since been training with a protective mask. Pau Cubarsi, who recently missed several training sessions, has yet to regain full rhythm,"
Fitness problems in Barcelona's defence after Eric Garcia's broken nose have left Ronald Araujo as the only fully fit centre-back ahead of the Celta Vigo match. Gerard Martin previously trained as a left-sided centre-back after Inigo Martinez's departure and adapted well, showing composure and positional awareness in friendlies and sessions. Martin has logged 563 minutes this season, mainly at full-back, but remains a versatile option ready to step into central defence if required. Pau Cubarsi is regaining rhythm, while Andreas Christensen returned to training and could be considered if match-fit. Flick may call on Martin as an emergency solution.
Read at Barca Universal
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