Former Barcelona director hails Barcelona defender’s leadership – ‘People don’t realise’

Former Barcelona sporting director Jordi Cruyff has shed light on the challenging summer veteran defender Inigo Martinez experienced, as various rumours surrounded his future at the club. 

Cruyff, who played a key role in bringing Martinez to Barcelona, has a deep understanding of the player’s journey and contributions. 

Following Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Young Boys, Cruyff offered his analysis of Martinez’s performance and overall situation.

Martinez, a seasoned centre-back, faced significant challenges this summer, starting with his registration issues. Due to the club’s salary cap restrictions, Barcelona couldn’t initially register the defender, leading to uncertainty about his future. 

Throughout the summer transfer window, there were widespread rumours regarding his potential departure, adding to the complications of his situation. 

Despite these hurdles, Martinez remained focused and worked diligently in the background, a trait that Cruyff highlights as one of his key strengths.

“He has had a complicated summer, with a lot of rumours,” said Cruyff as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Martinez is much more than just a player

Inigo Martinez has been a key player for Barcelona this season. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Cruyff pointed out that while fans and the media typically focus on what happens during the 90 minutes of a match, there is a lot of effort that goes unnoticed. 

Martinez is known for his work behind the scenes, especially in the dressing room. His influence extends beyond his role on the pitch, as he has been a crucial figure in supporting and guiding the younger players in the squad. 

“He is a player that the fans and the press only see for 90 minutes, but then there is work from Monday to Saturday, where there is a lot of effort in the dressing room, especially in a club with many young players,” explained Cruyff. 

Martinez’s ability to help and motivate his teammates, even when not in the spotlight, shows the kind of player he is. His contributions off the field are invaluable, especially in a club like Barcelona, which relies heavily on young talent. 

“People don’t realise, but when someone falls, sometimes someone has to pick them up, and he is that type of player who exercises leadership in the dressing room. 

“Whether he is a starter or not, he is always there, working harder than everyone else, and, above all, helping the dressing room. It is an invisible job for those who have never been in one.”

While his efforts may go unnoticed by the public, those within the club understand the important role he plays, especially after the role he played against Young Boys last night.