Inigo Martinez has finally returned to training from his hamstring injury, which might bring Flick to a challenging situation. The German will be forced to choose between the newly renewed Araujo and Inigo since the 18-year-old Pau Cubarsi will remain untouched.
Here’s why Martinez, not Araujo, should be a starter in Barcelona’s backline for the rest of this season.
The Left-Footed Balance in Barca’s Backline
Inigo Martinez is a naturally left-footed centre-back who has paired phenomenally well with Cubarsi this season. They complement each other well, and this has brilliantly impacted the team’s buildup play. While it might look like a minor detail, it has allowed Barca smoother transitions, better-passing angles, and more efficient ball progression down the left flank.
Araujo is undoubtedly a superior defender to Martinez in many ways, but he often looks uncomfortable on the left side. This forces him to make awkward clearances, which limits the team’s ability to play from the back. Therefore, Martinez fits perfectly into Hansi Flick’s positional play tactics.
Martinez’s Forward Passing is Key
Inigo Martinez brought another functional ability to the team: his sound and progressive passing. This season, the Spaniard’s passing numbers are outstanding: 96th percentile in completed passing, 97th percentile in forward passing, and 98th percentile in progressive carries (source: datamb). This is simply sensational.
The 33-year-old has shown composure in picking out a forward pass rather than an option sideways or backwards, even under pressure. Martinez’s line-breaking passes have complemented Flick’s system, as the defender has shown the ability to break opposition lines with pinpoint passes. This lack was mainly seen in the match against Benfica when Araujo’s inconsistent passing made our midfield technically inferior on many occasions.
The Perfect Defensive Partnership: Martinez & Cubarsi Must Start
While Ronald Araujo might be the fan favourite, it is essential to establish that Barcelona’s starters must be Martinez and Cubarsi, at least for the rest of the season. Why? Because the pair is a brilliant combination. Martinez provides experience and leadership in the backline, and Cubarsi brings energy, intelligence, and pace. The pair has thrived under Flick’s Highline and must be Flick’s first choice.
Araujo Vs Martinez: Flick’s Verdict
The strengths of both defenders are unique. Araujo brings physicality, strength, aerial prowess and pace to the defence, while Martinez is more technically gifted in reading the game. While I have maintained Martinez to start ahead of Araujo, it is crucial to note that Araujo’s role will also be pivotal in the remaining season.
It is up to Flick to decide how to use Araujo in situations and matches that fit the big Uruguayan. However, as things stand, Martinez and Cubarsi are more likely to be regular starters.
Who do you guys want to start? Martinez- Cubarsi or Araujo-Cubarsi? Let us know in the comment section.