Barcelona are gearing up for their Champions League quarterfinal showdown with Borussia Dortmund this Wednesday, with crucial games ahead in both La Liga and Europe.
The Blaugrana remain in contention for the La Liga title, despite a recent slip-up against Real Betis, where they failed to capitalize on a rare Madrid defeat.
Barcelona’s focus now turns to the Champions League, where they face German outfit Borussia Dortmund.
There have been growing concerns over injuries to some of his key players, including the recent issue suffered by veteran Inigo Martinez.
After missing the 1-1 draw with Betis, Martinez’s fitness had been a major talking point ahead of the mid-week clash with Dortmund.
However, reports from Marca have emerged that Inigo Martinez has returned to full training, providing a massive boost for Hansi Flick and his team.
The Basque defender, who has been one of the standout performers since his arrival, was forced to sit out Saturday’s draw with Betis after picking up a minor injury during the Copa del Rey semifinal win over Atletico Madrid.
With Barcelona dropping points in La Liga, their eyes are now firmly set on the Champions League, and the return of Martinez to fitness could be the difference-maker in a game that is bound to be filled with high stakes.
Marc Bartra and Ronald Araujo formed a makeshift centre-back pairing in Martinez’s absence, but their partnership wasn’t enough to secure all three points against Betis.
Now, with Inigo Martinez back in the fold, Barcelona fans are hopeful that their defensive solidity will be restored.
Martinez’s experience and leadership could prove crucial in keeping Dortmund’s attacking line at bay.
With Martinez fully recovered and available for selection, Flick now faces a difficult decision on whether to start the veteran or stick with the current defensive duo.
If Martinez is brought back into the starting lineup, it could see Araujo drop to the bench, a bold call by Flick, considering the Uruguayan’s importance in recent months.
In addition to Martinez’s return, the selection dilemma in central attacking midfield remains a point of contention.
With Dani Olmo sidelined due to injury, Hansi Flick will have to choose between Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Ferran Torres to fill the void in one of the most critical positions on the field.
The stakes could not be higher as Barcelona aim to progress in Europe.
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