Hansi Flick does not count on veteran Barcelona defender for next season – report

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has decided not to rely on experienced defender Inigo Martinez. As of now, Martinez remains unregistered in La Liga, and it seems his status is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Martinez still has a year left on his contract with Barcelona, with an option for an additional year, and he is determined to honour it. 

Despite this, he has not been officially registered with the team and his future hinges on whether Barcelona can finalise his registration. 

Flick, however, does not seem to have Martinez in his plans, even though the team is set to be without their key defender Ronald Araujo for much of the first half of the season.

Martinez was expected to play a big role

The recent injury to Araujo, which will sideline him for four months, was initially expected to increase Martinez’s chances of getting more playing time. 

Nonetheless, despite the competition from Eric Garcia, the 33-year-old has maintained a positive outlook. However, it appears that his hope for more playing time may not come to fruition.

Hansi Flick does not count on Inigo Martinez. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

For the past several weeks, Martinez’s future at Barcelona has been uncertain because he is still not listed as a first-team player. 

Interestingly, his contract includes a unique clause that allows him to terminate it and receive his full salary for the remaining duration. Despite this option, he has no intention of invoking the clause. 

His representatives have assured that he will not terminate his contract, at least not at this time.

Martinez wants to wait for Barcelona

Martinez’s willingness to stay with Barcelona is clear. He understands that the club is currently dealing with financial issues and is giving them the time they need to resolve these matters. 

His commitment to staying with Barça is evident as he has already begun training under new coach Hansi Flick.

On the other hand, Flick appears to prefer having Mikayil Faye as his defender. Considering the impact Faye has had in training, the manager seems inclined to rely on the youngster’s potential rather than Martinez’s experience. 

This decision highlights Flick’s confidence in the abilities of younger players and his vision for the team’s future.