Departure of veteran defender may create a domino effect at Barcelona, youngsters likely to benefit

Barcelona have been dealt a major blow with Inigo Martinez set to join Al Nassr on a free transfer, despite being one of the most reliable pillars of Hansi Flick’s defensive unit last season.

The veteran centre-back’s exit comes as a surprise so late in the transfer window and could trigger a chain of tactical adjustments at the club, with several youngsters poised to benefit.

Flick reshuffling his defence

As reported by Diario SPORT, Inigo Martinez’s departure may create a huge domino effect in the Barcelona team heading into the new season.

Flick had been aware of the possibility of Martinez’s departure and began experimenting during pre-season.

One notable change was deploying Gerard Martin, naturally a full-back, as a centre-back. The 21-year-old previously played in that role for Cornelia, and with Martinez gone, he is now expected to see significant minutes in central defence.

Gerard Martin may moved to centre-back after Inigo Martinez exit (Picture courtesy: FC Barcelona Official Website)

Martin’s shift could have a direct impact on Jofre Torrents, the highly rated academy talent.

With Martin moving into the back line, a spot opens up in the first-team rotation, allowing Torrents to potentially become the primary alternative to Alejandro Balde at left-back next season.

Eric Garcia’s role reconsidered

Another scenario under consideration is shifting Eric Garcia back to his natural position at centre-back.

Flick had been trialling Garcia as a right-back in pre-season to bolster options out wide, but Martínez’s departure might see that plan scrapped.

Such a change could also influence the future of Hector Fort, who was reportedly close to leaving on loan.

If Garcia returns to the heart of defence, Barcelona might decide to keep Fort as extra cover at right-back, maintaining depth across multiple positions.

That being said, Barcelona coach Flick is also open to signing a new versatile defender to replace Martinez, especially if the club eventually returns to the 1:1 rule.