Hansi Flick ready to bet on Barcelona reserve team player as backup for key position

Gerard Martin is one of many youngsters who were a part of Barcelona’s recently-concluded pre-season trip to the United States.

A left-back by trade, Martin was included in the Barcelona squad on account of the team’s lack of depth in the full-back position, especially following the departure of Joao Cancelo.

Martin was involved in all three friendlies against Man City, Real Madrid and AC Milan respectively.

Hansi Flick impressed by Martin

As the US trip comes to an end, Toni Juanmarti has offered comprehensive details of Hansi Flick’s key takeaways.

One of the key highlights of Flick’s analysis is the lack of trust in Julian Araujo. The Mexican international has fallen out of favour and it appears the German coach does not trust him to replace Alejandro Balde at left-back.

Therefore, Flick has put his faith in Gerard Martin and is betting on him to serve as an alternative for Balde next season.

This is a significant development, which indicates Flick’s immense faith in Barcelona’s youth and reserve ranks.

During the US trip, the German coach has also been impressed with the performances of Marc Bernal and Marc Casado.

What Cancelo’s return would mean for Martin

As things stand, Gerard Martin must still go through immense competition if he is to make a name for himself in the Barcelona first-team.

Even if Julian Araujo ends up leaving Barcelona, the young full-back must compete with both Balde and Alex Valle for a place in the left-back position, although the latter has been used as a right-back in pre-season.

Moreover, Barcelona are still interested in bringing back Joao Cancelo, whose loan spell ended at the end of last season.

Cancelo’s return could make things even more difficult for Martin to gain game-time in the first-team next season as Valle would then be used at left-back while the Portuguese international himself can play in the position if needed.

However, Flick’s early trust in the youngster could be a good thing for the player as he looks to continue his progress at the highest level.