Zero errors leading to goal – Stats prove why Barcelona have the best defender in La Liga this season

Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s defence has seen a significant transformation this season—and at the heart of that change stands Inigo Martinez. 

Once seen as a fringe figure under Xavi and burdened by injury troubles, the experienced centre-back has found a new lease on life, becoming an essential pillar of Flick’s unbeaten run.

Now, Martinez has clocked over 2,000 minutes in La Liga alone this season, more than most of his fellow defenders at the club. 

The German coach has placed his trust in the former Athletic Club man, and the veteran has repaid it with commanding performances. Five clean sheets stand out, but it is his dominance in duels that truly highlights his resurgence.

A look at the numbers

The 33-year-old currently boasts the best duel success rate in all of La Liga, winning an astonishing 74.2% of his duels. 

That is more than Real Sociedad’s Nayef Aguerd (72%) and Real Madrid’s Dani Ceballos (69.9%), placing Martinez firmly at the top of the league in this category. 

Inigo Martinez has been one of Barcelona’s top players. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Furthermore, his aerial strength is equally impressive. With 65% of aerial duels won, Martinez stands out as one of the most reliable defenders in the air, especially considering Barcelona’s occasional struggles to deal with crosses and set-pieces this season. 

His averages—4.2 ball recoveries and 3.6 clearances per game—are higher than those of Pau Cubarsi, Jules Kounde, or Ronald Araujo, all of whom are more frequently talked about.

There is much more

Perhaps the most crucial statistic of all: zero errors leading to goals. In a team that builds from the back, especially under Flick’s more vertical and brave style of play, a mistake-free centre-back is a goldmine. 

Martinez has offered exactly that—calmness on the ball, assurance in the tackle, and leadership when things get tough.

With Barcelona now 21 matches unbeaten since their last loss on 21 December against Atletico Madrid, Martinez has become a quiet cornerstone of this impressive streak. 

Flick has made bold choices this season—but none may prove as effective as reviving the career of the centre-back who now leads La Liga in duel success and has become one of Barça’s most dependable players.