Departure from Vitor Roque creates space
© Imago
Trainer Hansi Flick can also plan at FC Barcelona with central defender Iñigo Martínez beyond the end of the season. The 33-year-old’s contract was extended by one year by June 30, 2026. Martínez had come to the Catalans in the summer of 2023 from Athletic Bilbao and has played 58 games (three goals) since then. The agreement had been in dry towels for months, but could only be waved through the league, it said.
Martínez ‘contract included a clause that the term would automatically be extended by one year if he had been on the pitch for 60 percent of the games at least 45 minutes. Because of his achievements, Barça did not want to wait for it and agreed with the defender earlier. However, the budget did not allow the new contract to be registered with the league. Only the late sale of Vitor Roque (20) to Palmeiras now created the necessary financial scope.
Martínez has become an important pillar under Flick: In 32 out of 33 missions, he was in the starting eleven in the current season, contributing three goals and four templates. The veteran has established itself in the defense center next to Pau Cubarsí (18). “His performance is great, he is a leader. It is a very young team, so it is important to have experienced players like Iñigo, ”said Flick a few days ago.