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Barcelona manager Hansi Flick claimed that centre-back Inigo Martinez is an 'absolute leader' within the Catalan giants' squad. The Spaniard has been a regular starter for the Blaugrana this season, contributing significantly to their successful start to the season.
Martinez joined Barca from Athletic Club on a free transfer in the summer of 2023. He earned a regular starting spot towards the end of the 2023-24 campaign, and has made 33 appearances for the club across all competitions (24 starts).
Despite the absence of star defenders Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen, Martinez and youngster Pau Cubarsi have formed a solid defensive partnership. They have been instrumental in helping Barca to a perfect record of seven wins in seven games to kick off their 2024-25 La Liga campaign.
Speaking after Barcelona's latest league victory, a 1-0 win over Getafe (September 25), Flick said (via Barca News Network):
"He (Martinez) is an absolute leader, a fighter. What he does for 90 minutes is incredible. You could see towards the end that he struggled a bit, maybe from a few knocks, but it's still great to see. I told him it's great to have him in the team because he’s an absolute leader."
Martinez has played almost every single minute for Barcelona this season, only missing nine minutes after being taken off in the 81st minute of a 5-1 win over Villarreal.
"He's been incredible" - Barcelona boss Hansi Flick lavishes praise on defender Jules Kounde after stellar displays
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was full of praise for star defender Jules Kounde after his impressive performance in the Catalans' 1-0 win over Getafe in La Liga (September 25).
Kounde was a constant offensive threat throughout the 90 minutes. He provided the dangerous cross that was fumbled by opposition goalkeeper David Soria into Robert Lewandowski's path, with the Pole duly scoring the opener (19').
He was also solid in defense, helping his side keep their second clean sheet of the season. He has played every single minute for Barcelona this season, with a goal and an assist to his name.
Speaking after the win over Getafe, Flick was over the moon with Kounde's output. The German tactician said (via Barca News Network):
"Jules has been playing as a right-back for the French national team as well, and he's been unbelievable. He's 100% fit and consistently performs at a high level every three days, which is really good. You don't have to worry about substituting him, and he thrives on improving and pushing himself further. It's really great to see."
Kounde repaid the compliment, claiming that the squad have enjoyed the style of training and play that Flick has implemented at the club. The 25-year-old said (via Barca Blaugranes):
"He (Flick) has his ideas about playing style very clear, we have understood them very well, we have enjoyed the training sessions and the matches. He's very demanding and it's going very well for us."
Up next, Kounde will likely be seen in action in Barcelona's next La Liga fixture, against Osasuna on September 28.
