Something of a shake-up to the predicted pecking order in the defensive ranks of La Liga giants Barcelona has this week been revealed.
The info comes courtesy of Mundo Deportivo, and points towards the call in question as having come in relation to Barca’s options at left-back.
It has long been common knowledge in Catalunya’s capital that, this coming season, Alejandro Balde will take up the reins as the first-choice left-back in the Blaugrana’s squad once more.
As much comes with the Spaniard back fully fit after a long-term spell on the sidelines.
With Héctor Fort in line to return to his more natural berth on the right, the understanding, in turn, was that Álex Valle – fresh off a season on loan with Levante – would act as Balde’s backup.
This plan, however, now appears to have been altered…
As per the aforementioned Mundo Deportivo, another profile has usurped Valle in the full-back pecking order at the Camp Nou.
The player in question? Gerard Martín.
Stopper Martín, who spent last season plying his trade with Barca Atlètic, is said to have turned the heads of Hansi Flick and his coaching staff, owing to his combination of ‘physical strength, defensive ability, development and progression on an offensive level’.
Such traits were on full display against Manchester City earlier this week, with MD concluding that:
‘Right now, he is ahead of Álex Valle.’
Conor Laird | GSFN
