Hansi Flick Heartbroken by Barcelona Starter’s Departure

On Thursday evening, news of Martínez’s departure became public. The Catalan club had agreed to let him go on a free transfer, with Al Nasr joining Saudi Arabian side. They will save €14 million in salary, but due to being over the salary cap, Barcelona can only use €8.4 million of that to sign other players.

Whether Hansi Flick was as surprised as everyone else, Iñigo Martínez’s departure was bad news for Barcelona’s hopes of defending their title next season. Last year, Flick relied on Martínez as a starting center-back from the outset, providing an experienced partner for Pau Kubalci.

Barcelona currently has no plans to sign a replacement

With Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric García, Kubalci, and now Martin all on the bench, Barcelona currently has no plans to sign a replacement for Martinez. While they remain open to any opportunities that may arise, Barcelona believes they are well prepared in this regard—no doubt one of the reasons for letting the Basque defender go.

Flick Disappointed at Losing Óñigo Martínez

According to Sport, Flick was devastated to learn of Martínez’s potential departure, despite having known about it beforehand. Flick’s decision to start Gerard Martin at center back during preseason was a deliberate one. While Flick is struggling to adjust to playing without Martin, it’s undoubtedly a painful loss for the German.

Martínez, an experienced left-footer, is the perfect partner for Kubalci and a leader in his defense. Earlier this season, Flick highlighted Martinez as a role model for the rest of the team and expressed his appreciation for his adaptation to the new tactical system last season.