Xavi intends to give Barcelona veteran more opportunities in the remaining matches

According to journalist Jordi Gil from SPORT, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez is planning to feature Inigo Martinez more prominently in the remaining games of the season. 

Furthermore, the Barcelona manager also intends to keep the veteran defender on the squad for the next season.

This information suggests that any talk of Martinez leaving the club this summer is unfounded.

It is no secret that Barcelona have experienced a decline in defensive strength, as evidenced by the four goals conceded against Girona. 

To overcome that, Xavi plans to utilize Martinez in the final four matches of the season, as he is well-suited to handle the season’s end with the battle for second place underway.

Consistency amidst injuries

Martinez, 32, has demonstrated his worth when consistently playing, but his performance was interrupted by two muscle injuries, an uncommon occurrence in his career. 

With the rise of Pau Cubarsi, the veteran’s game-time has taken a backseat, but he is expected to regain prominence soon.

During his most recent appearance, in the second half against Valencia, he helped stem the tide of goals by coming on after the break. The team shifted from a 1-2 deficit to a 4-2 victory.

Inigo Martinez will not leave Barcelona this summer. (Photo by JAIME REINA/AFP via Getty Images)

Interestingly, the Cubarsi-Martinez partnership has proven reliable. Against Mallorca and Las Palmas, they played together, leading to narrow 1-0 victories with no goals conceded. Their defensive strategy effectively minimized scoring opportunities for opponents.

Martinez will stay at Barcelona

Though Martinez hasn’t seen much action in recent games, he remains a valuable asset for next season and he will honour the two-year contract he signed upon his arrival, ensuring his stay with the team.

Now, Barça face an excess of players in central defence, most of whom are young prospects like Cubarsi, Chadi Riad (should he return), or Mika Faye (if he moves up from the reserve team).

The futures of Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde are uncertain, as both players have market value and may be part of the team’s restructuring efforts.

For now, Kounde has adapted to playing right-back but may consider offers from top Premier League clubs where he could play his preferred central position.

Basically, if there are any key departures from Barcelona, Martinez will gain strength within the first team next season.