Barcelona star trusted by Flick set for his big opportunity after teammate’s injury | OneFootball

Earlier today, FC Barcelona confirmed that key defender Alejandro Balde had suffered a thigh injury during a training session, which came as a major setback.

While the club’s statement did not specify a recovery time, it has since been reported that the 21-year-old left-back could be out for at least three weeks, meaning he will miss at least the team’s first three games after the international break.

Gerard Martin’s big opportunity

With Balde sidelined, SPORT reports that Gerard Martin is set to get his big opportunity to make an impression, with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick fully trusting him to deliver.

While it has not always been easy for the 23-year-old left-back since his promotion to the first team last season, he has always had Flick’s backing.

When Balde was injured towards the end of last season, Flick placed his trust in Martin, and the left-back had his fair share of positive moments, coupled with some costly mistakes.

Gerard Martin set for a bigger role after Balde’s injury. (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images)

Those ups and downs have served Martin well, allowing him to arrive at this season much better prepared.

During pre-season, Flick even tested him as an alternative in central defence, as without Inigo Martinez, Barcelona were left without a left-footed profile.

It was a test that left positive impressions, but with Balde’s injury, everything indicates that Martin will take over in the starting eleven.

Indeed, with Balde sidelined for around three weeks, Martin is expected to start for Flick at least against Valencia, Newcastle United and Getafe.

The alternative is teenage prospect Jofre Torrents, who made his official debut against Mallorca, but is unlikely to be thrust into a starting role right away.