Hansi Flick's plan to replace Iñigo Martínez

Barcelona will have many problems to replace the absence of the Basque center-back.

 
Javier Parra Peña | 7 Aug 2025 | 21.00
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Hansi Flick's plan to replace Iñigo Martínez
Hansi Flick's plan to replace Iñigo Martínez

FC Barcelona could lose one of its defensive pillars from last season in the coming hours. Iñigo Martínez is very close to leaving the club, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, and Hansi Flick has already defined how to reorganize the defense without turning to the market. The German coach is not considering immediate signings and will opt for rotation among the players who are already part of the first team.

With the departure of the Basque defender nearly sealed, the coach's plan involves trusting Pau Cubarsí, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araújo, and Eric García, in addition to evaluating young Gerard Martín, who has shown promise during preseason. Flick sees enough guarantees in them to maintain defensive solidity without compromising the club's financial stability.

Barcelona Will Not Sign a New Center-Back

Interest from Saudi Arabia may finalize Iñigo's departure. Al Nassr, one of the most powerful clubs in the Gulf, has set its sights on the 34-year-old center-back. With a contract until 2026 and a significant salary, Barça believes that selling now would be a smart move both economically and in terms of sports. Freeing up salary cap space and earning income for a player who arrived on a free transfer represents an excellent opportunity.

The defender was not only important for his defensive security but also for his offensive contributions. Three goals, six assists, and 46 games played solidified his role as a key asset in the team that won the league, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup last season.

Iñigo's potential departure leaves two paths open in the club's offices: either sign a defender if a market opportunity arises, or reinforce another area—such as the full-backs—and relocate Christensen to the center. Flick seems to lean towards the latter, at least for now.

Although not official yet, everything indicates that Iñigo will embark on a new adventure outside Europe. His departure could mark the beginning of a new phase for a defense looking to renew itself without losing competitiveness.

 

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El plan de Hansi Flick para suplir a Iñigo Martínez