Gerard Martin’s rise, Barcelona’s ‘working-class triumph’ | OneFootball

Gerard Martin, 23, has seized his chance at Barcelona, establishing himself at centre-back and winning every game he has played. L'Équipe reports that he began the season almost unknown and has quickly become integral.

Ten days ago he fronted the press before the 2-1 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt, stepping in for third captain Frenkie De Jong. He handled a testing assignment with ease and has brought fresh energy to Hansi Flick’s squad.

Once seen as a reserve, he has become a starter. Team-mates call him “Gerard Maldini”, a dressing-room gag that hints at his form. Flick has preferred the left-footed Martin to the physically fragile yet reliable Andreas Christensen, a choice that fits alongside right-footed Pau Cubarsi.

Raised at UE Cornella, Martin joined Barça Atletic in summer 2023 at 21 and impressed as a left-back under Rafa Marquez. A shy character, he and his twin brother Arnau, his representative, still live with their parents.

Online, his rise has been tagged as a working-class triumph. Martin has noticed the label, says he is humble and hard-working, and accepts he benefited from Iñigo Martinez’s unexpected departure and Ronald Araujo’s burn-out.

Flick’s faith has produced six wins on the spin, even if Martin only appeared late in the midweek Cup tie against Guadalajara. He is expected to start at Villarreal on Sunday at 16:15.

Source: L'Équipe