​As Barcelona’s pre-season kicks off, Gerard Martin has offered an honest look at his rapid development under Hansi Flick. The versatile defender reflected on his new role as a centre-back, the trust shown by the Barcelona manager, Lionel Messi’s performances at the World Cup, and the changes inside the dressing room ahead of the new campaign. In an extensive interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 24-year-old touched on several club-related topics, including his positional switch, the departure of senior figures, and the atmosphere within Flick’s squad.
After establishing himself as a left-back, Martin acknowledged that Flick’s decision to move him into central defence marked a turning point. He explained how the change came about, saying, “It was in the first match in Korea. Flick told me he wanted to play me as a centre-back and I said, ‘Go ahead.’ So I started training and playing there. He told me to just be myself. I’ve felt very comfortable and I’ve developed. I’ve always felt his trust in me.” The defender also spoke about his relationship with the Barcelona coach and clarified why Flick’s management style has helped the squad maintain high standards.
“He’s very close to us. He always tells you what he thinks, both about what you need to improve and what you’re doing well. When he needs to give us a bit of a telling-off, he does. He’s always keeping a close eye on us because he knows it’s crucial that we’re fired up and united.” Martin recalled a particular moment that lingered after an impressive performance: “After the home tie against Newcastle, the 7–2 win. At the end of the match, he came over and congratulated me. He’s not very expressive, but he’s the sort of person who’ll come over and give you a hug.”
Looking ahead to the new season, Martin insisted he is fully prepared for another demanding campaign. “I feel good physically, really keen to get started again and compete. A few of us have been training, though it’s been a bit of a laugh so far because we’re on holiday. We’ll be getting down to business on Monday.” Among the many topics discussed, Martin admitted he has enjoyed following the latter stages of the FIFA World Cup and reserved special praise for Lionel Messi. When asked whether any player had caught his eye, he replied, “Messi has surprised me, in the sense that I hadn’t seen him play during the year and he’s turned up in really good form. We all know who Messi is, but he never ceases to amaze us.”
The Barcelona defender also explained why he feels comfortable operating within Flick’s aggressive defensive system, emphasizing the trust and tactical clarity that have underpinned his development. He highlighted how the coach’s approach has shaped his ability to adapt to a central role and maintain the intensity required by Flick’s system, reflecting on the growth he has experienced under his current manager. As preparations continue, Martin’s progress stands as a noteworthy narrative in Barcelona’s pre-season, underscoring the impact of Flick’s influence and the evolving dynamics within the squad.