Hansi Flick has called up a new gem for Barcelona’s upcoming match against Valencia, signalling trust in the rising star.
FC Barcelona kickstarted their final, high-intensity tactical preparations for Sunday’s crucial La Liga encounter against Valencia at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper with a noticeable new face integrated directly into first-team activities.
As Hansi Flick continues to meticulously inspect the youth academy ranks to bolster operational depth across positions, the German manager provided an unexpected and massive opportunity for a dynamic young attacker to test himself alongside established global superstars.
The highly rated 17-year-old attacking prospect summoned to senior squad duties is La Masia winger Iu Martinez.
According to reporting via Diario Sport, Martinez received his maiden call-up to first-team training on Thursday as Flick sought direct wide coverage following a minor physical setback suffered by regular youth invitee Jesse Bisiwu.
With Bisiwu currently advised to rest for a few days after taking a blow to his thigh while competing for Barça Atlètic in the Copa Catalunya final, Martinez stepped up seamlessly during a demanding workout that featured intense physical conditioning before concluding with a full 11-a-side match simulation.
Born in 2009, Martinez is widely regarded as an adventurous wide player who combines traditional technical attributes cultivated within La Masia with rare, relentless physical drive.
Originally honed as a central midfielder—where he formed a formidable youth engine room partnership alongside fellow prospect Michal Zuk—Martinez transitioned permanently into a wide attacking role upon moving into 11-a-side football.
The position shift unlocked his sharp directness and high pressing output, allowing him to link up fluidly with teammates while offering continuous energy, competitive fight, and passionate directness down the flank.
However, catching the eye of Hansi Flick during senior preparation for a high-stakes La Liga fixture against Valencia marks a defining milestone in the young winger’s rapid rise through the club’s development ladder.
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