As Barcelona begins preparations for the new season, defender Gerard Martin has given a frank assessment of his rapid development under Hansi Flick. The versatile defender shared important information about his new role in central defense and the dynamics of the team. In an extensive interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 24-year-old Martin touched on various topics about the change of position at Barcelona, ​​the departure of senior players and the atmosphere in Flick's squad.

Now established as a left-back, Martin admitted Hansi Flick's decision to place him in central defense was a turning point. Explaining how this change came about, Martin said: "We played the first match in Korea. Flick said he wanted me to play in central defense and I said 'Okay, let's start'. That's how I started training and playing there. He allowed me to trust myself. I feel very comfortable and improved. I always felt his trust."

Describing his relationship with Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, Martin said, "He is very close with us. He always tells us when you need to improve and what you are doing well. When he needs to be a little angry with us, he does this too. He observes all of us because he knows that it is very critical that we are highly motivated and united." He stated that he did not forget Flick's congratulations, especially after the match they won 7-2 against Newcastle.

Emphasizing that he is completely ready for the new season, Martin said, "I feel good physically, I want to start again and compete. A few of us are training, but since it is a holiday right now, it is a bit of fun. We will return to the seriousness of work on Monday."

He added that he had been following the final stages of the World Cup and had special praise for Lionel Messi: "Messi surprised me a lot, because I hadn't watched him all year and he came in really good form. We all know who Messi is, but he still manages to surprise us every time," he said.

Stating that he feels comfortable in Flick's aggressive defense system, Martin said, "It is a particularly risky system, but I like to take risks. You have to be completely interested in everything. I like to play that way." He stated that after the departure of Inigo Martinez, the leadership of the defense was shared between him and Pau Cubarsi. "Cuba and I. After all, the two central defenders are the ones who can see everything. You have to communicate with the players next to you and in front of you. We fulfill this role and we are happy with it," he said.Stating that the new goalkeeper Joan Garcia also adapted quickly, Martin said, "From the first day, Joan adapted very quickly and always observed when she needed to come out. She is always ready and also a fast goalkeeper."

Emphasizing that Robert Lewandowski's departure created a significant gap in the squad, Martin said, "Players leave every year. Robert's departure is difficult because he is a very experienced player. Things were a bit complicated when he came to the club. He always tried to instill this understanding of work and training. We will miss him. He has contributed a lot to us over the years."