Barcelona defender Gerard Martin talks Flick, Lewandowski, Raphinha, Cubarsi, Messi, Joan Garcia | OneFootball

As Barcelona pre-season gets underway, Gerard Martin has offered an honest insight into his rapid development under Hansi Flick. 

The versatile defender reflected on his new role as a centre-back, the trust shown by the Barcelona manager, Lionel Messi’s performances at the FIFA World Cup and the changes inside the dressing room ahead of the new campaign.

Speaking in an extensive interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 24-year-old touched on several topics related to the club, including his positional switch, the departure of senior figures and the atmosphere within Flick’s squad.

How Flick transformed his Barcelona career

After establishing himself as a left-back, Gerard Martin admitted that Hansi Flick’s decision to move him into central defence proved to be a turning point.

Explaining how the change came about, the Barcelona defender said,

“It was in the first match in Korea. Flick told me he wanted to play me as a centre-back and I said, ‘Go ahead.’ 

“So I started training and playing there. He told me to just be myself. I’ve felt very comfortable and I’ve developed. I’ve always felt his trust in me.”

Martin also spoke about his relationship with the Barcelona coach and explained why Flick’s management style has helped the squad maintain high standards.

“He’s very close to us. He always tells you what he thinks, both about what you need to improve and what you’re doing well. 

“When he needs to give us a bit of a telling-off, he does. He’s always keeping a close eye on us because he knows it’s crucial that we’re fired up and united.”

The defender also recalled one particular moment that stayed with him after an impressive performance.

“After the home tie against Newcastle, the 7–2 win. At the end of the match, he came over and congratulated me. 

Gerard Martin has made significant progress under Flick. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

“He’s not very expressive, but he’s the sort of person who’ll come over and give you a hug.”

Looking ahead to the new season, Martin insisted he is fully prepared for another demanding campaign.

“I feel good physically, really keen to get started again and compete. 

“A few of us have been training, though it’s been a bit of a laugh so far because we’re on holiday. We’ll be getting down to business on Monday.”

Martin discusses Messi and Joan Garcia

Among the many subjects discussed, Gerard Martin admitted he has enjoyed following the latter stages of the FIFA World Cup and reserved special praise for Lionel Messi.

Asked whether any player had caught his attention, he replied:

“Messi has surprised me, in the sense that I hadn’t seen him play during the year and he’s turned up in really good form. We all know who Messi is, but he never ceases to amaze us.”

The Barcelona defender also explained why he feels comfortable operating in Flick’s aggressive defensive system.

“I haven’t felt particularly exposed. It’s a system I feel very comfortable in. It’s risky if you compare it to other teams. 

“I like taking risks. I feel comfortable. You always have to be fully involved in everything that’s going on. I like playing that way.”

Following Inigo Martinez’s departure, Martin revealed that defensive leadership is now shared between himself and Pau Cubarsi.

Gerard Martin is ready to take up more responsibility. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“Between ‘Cuba’ and me. Ultimately, the two centre-backs are the ones who see everything. 

“You have to talk or communicate with those beside you and in front of you. We both fulfil that role and we’re comfortable with it.”

He also praised new goalkeeper Joan Garcia for settling in quickly.

“From day one, Joan [Garcia] adapted very quickly and has always been very alert to when he needed to come off his line. 

“He’s always ready and, on top of that, he’s a quick goalkeeper.”

On Lewandowski and Raphinha

Furthermore, Martin acknowledged that Robert Lewandowski’s departure leaves a significant gap within the squad.

“Players leave every year. Robert’s departure is tough because he’s a very experienced lad. He joined the club when things were a bit of a mess. 

“He’s always tried to instil that way of working and training. He’ll be missed. He’s given us so much over the years.”

Lastly, when asked about who the dressing room leaders are in this Barcelona squad, the versatile defender responded,

“Raphinha is acting as captain, but we don’t need a designated leader because all the players have the right mindset and know what needs to be done. 

“If at any point we’re struggling and need to step it up, anyone can speak up. We have that confidence,” he concluded.