Inigo Martinez talks contract renewal, Yamal, Pena, Cubarsi, Flick ahead of Barcelona vs Brest | OneFootball

Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has shared his thoughts on a range of topics, including his contract situation, his role in the team, and the team’s recent performances.

Speaking to the media ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League match against Brest, Martinez offered insights into his mindset and the dynamics within the squad.

Focused on the match against Brest

Martinez emphasised the importance of staying alert in the clash against Brest, acknowledging their strong performances in the competition.

He stressed that any lapse in focus could cost Barcelona dearly and expressed the team’s determination to secure three points to maintain their position at the top of the table.

“We will have a very tough rival, who is doing well in the Champions League and wants to compete, and if we relax tomorrow we could pay dearly. We want to get the three points to stay at the top of the table,” he began saying.

On contract renewal

Inigo Martinez is not too worried about his renewal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The experienced defender downplayed concerns about his contract extension, stating he prefers to focus on his current responsibilities.

“I don’t even think about it. It’s one of the things that can make you lose focus and not concentrate on what you have to do. I focus on my own thing and on the day to day and enjoy the opportunities.”

For Martinez, the priority is performing at his best in every game and making the most of his opportunities. Whether or not the club decides to renew his contract, he is content with his contributions during his time at Barcelona.

“If it has to come, it will come and everyone will be happy. But I focus on competing at the maximum. If it doesn’t come, I’ll say that I’ve been at Barça for two years,” he noted.

Celta Vigo draw and Flick’s anger

The 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo was a frustrating result for Martinez and his teammates. Despite having control of the match, the team let a win slip away.

“It was hard to digest. It was a game that we had under control, so to speak. In certain situations, the team let two vital points slip away.”

He acknowledged the disappointment felt by both manager Hansi Flick and the players but recognised that such setbacks are part of football. He remains focused on learning from these moments and improving in future matches.

“It’s normal that the manager, and the whole team, felt angry. But these things happen in football. We win and we all lose. We let an important opportunity slip away.”

Opponents can read Barcelona now

Inigo Martinez made an honest admission. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Martinez noted that opposing teams study Barcelona closely, particularly how to disrupt their high defensive line.

“The rival watches Barça’s games and analyses them. More than getting behind us, it’s how they press, in what way and when they press. If they press, it’s more difficult for them to catch us behind.

“The Real game and the Celta game, when we lower the intensity… they create chances for us and they can create danger for us. They’ve caught us in a few cases when we’ve been offside. It gives us more than it takes away.”

He highlighted the importance of maintaining intensity and positioning to minimise risks, adding that the team must adapt to counter-pressing from rivals effectively.

“Trying to keep the line as far away as possible. There have been times when the line shouldn’t have been so far forward to avoid risks.

“We have to continue along the same line even if fast forwards are looking for us. If we’re doing well, it’s very difficult for them to create chances for us behind.”

Dependence on Lamine Yamal

Martinez praised Yamal’s contributions to the team, highlighting his ability to push opponents’ defences back and create opportunities.

“We know his importance, I won’t deny it. It gives us a lot, it pushes back the opponent’s defensive line. It generates a lot of fear. He’s vital to the team, but that can’t mean that the next guy who comes on isn’t going to be up to the task.”

However, he also expressed confidence in the squad’s depth, believing other players are fully capable of stepping up when needed.

“I have no doubt that everyone who comes on gives 100%, or 200%. The day Lamine is not here and we win, we will not talk about it. We have enough players to win every game,” he noted.

Relationship with Hansi Flick

Inigo Martinez has full support of Hansi Flick. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Martinez reflected on his current form, describing this season as one of the most enjoyable of his career.

“This is the year I’m enjoying the most. Everything is going well. You compete every game, you notice that the coach is very fond of you.”

He credits Flick for instilling confidence in him from the start and providing opportunities to showcase his abilities. This trust has allowed Martinez to play a significant role within the team and the dressing room.

“Hansi, from the first minute, showed me that he wanted to see me and wanted to give me that opportunity. Logical for a new coach. I didn’t want to be bothering the boss if he didn’t trust me.”

Thoughts on Inaki Pena and Cubarsi

Martinez also shared his thoughts on some of his teammates. He praised goalkeeper Inaki Pena for his calm demeanour and ability to step up when needed.

Inigo Martinez praised Inaki Pena and Pau Cubarsi. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

“He is so cold. I don’t know what he thinks. He’s a great guy, he’s different, peculiar. That’s where you see the work, and when you have that opportunity, to jump, to perform.

“He has the full confidence of the coach, of the club, he has been here for many years. He is so calm that I don’t see him leaving his comfort zone at any time. He is showing what a great goalkeeper he is.”

Similarly, he commended young defender Pau Cubarsi for his exceptional maturity and potential at just 17 years old.

“It’s logical that he receives praise. He has had two spectacular years, showing the potential he has at his age. I started when I was 20 and he is 17.

“He shows it every game, he has very clear ideas and wants to succeed. He has many years left at Barça and I hope to see him enjoy it for a long time,” he said.

Source: AS