Inigo Martínez is ready to be included in the Barcelona team for this Sunday against Deportivo Alaves in Montjuic, reports.
The Basque support center, which has been training with the team since Thursday, is completely recovered from the hamstring injury in its right leg that it suffered during the final of the Spanish Super Cup on January 12.
The tests confirmed the injury and indicated a three -week recovery period, which will conclude exactly on Sunday. And with the defender training with the team for three consecutive days, he will receive the green light to return to the team tomorrow.
A key back player
With the imminent return of Martínez, coach Hansi Flick recovers a crucial defensive leader, who has often been the extension of the manager in the field.
While it is unlikely that the 33 -year -old begins against Alavés, could see a few minutes, serving as a warm -up before the Copa del Rey match against Valencia next Thursday in Mestalla.
It is clear that the return of the former sports club defender will add pressure on the plants competing in the post.
The most likely affected player is Ronald Aroujo, who has seen more game time since Martínez’s injury.
Until the opposite is indicated, Flick’s preferred central match is still Pau Cubarsi and Martínez, since this duo has provided the best balance in defense this season, both in terms of defensive solidity and ball distribution.
Eric García, who had started the last two games in the center of the back, is also likely to be affected by the return of the Spanish veteran.
With Martínez’s return, Flick can breathe relieved. The 33 -year -old understands very well the trap offside: one of the key tactics of the German coach to win possession and close the space.
In addition, Martínez’s leadership and professionalism have raided the way for an imminent extension of one year’s contract, which the club will announce soon.