Barcelona defender opens up on Hansi Flick’s trust after thriving in new role

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·13 de julio de 2026

Barcelona defender opens up on Hansi Flick’s trust after thriving in new role

The defender Gerard Martin has been one of the players who have earned a place in the FC Barcelona first team, coming from the youth academy, under Hansi Flick. He made his way to the first team during the German’s first season in charge, but saw his importance increase significantly during the last season.

One factor that led to this increase in his prominence was his move from the flank to the center of the defense. He even became a starter for Flick during the latter part of the last season, as Eric Garcia had to fill in for other areas of the team. His performances in the center of the backline were so satisfactory that the Blaugranes now no longer see the reinforcement of this area an urgent necessity this summer.

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Today, he began his preseason training under the German coach, and will be looking to retain his place in the team going forward. But before starting this training, he also appeared in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, and talked about some aspects of his career at Barcelona.

The defender was confident that he is approaching the start of the preseason in good shape:

“I feel good physically and I’m really looking forward to getting started again and competing. A few of us have been training together, although up to now it’s all been a bit of fun since we’re still on holiday. From Monday onwards, we’ll get more serious.”

The center-back also commented on how he adapted to his new position:

“It was in the first match in Korea. Flick told me he wanted to play me as a centre-back, and I told him to go ahead. From then on, I started training and playing in that position. He told me to just be myself. I’ve felt very comfortable there and I’ve grown a lot. I’ve always felt his trust.”

Martin also opened up about his relationship with Flick:

“He’s very approachable. He always tells you exactly what he thinks—both what you need to improve and what you’re doing well. When it’s time to give someone a wake-up call, he does that too. He’s always keeping a close eye on us because he knows it’s crucial that we stay focused and united.”

The defender also revealed who the leaders are in the Barcelona dressing room:

“Raphinha is the captain, but we don’t really need one clearly defined leader because everyone in the squad has the right mentality and knows what needs to be done. If things aren’t going well and we need to raise our level, anyone can speak up. We have that kind of trust in each other.”

Although not enjoying as much of the spotlight as Lamine Yamal, or even Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin has also gone on to make himself an important part of the Barcelona first team in the last two years. Hopefully, he would continue to grow and retain Hansi Flick’s trust as the Blaugrana team prepares for the start of another season with high hopes.