FC Barcelona can regroup and refuel during the mid-season break, which is a welcome respite after a run of inconsistent play and unexpected outcomes.
Additionally, manager Xavi Hernandez can rest some of his injured players for the second half of the season thanks to the two-week Christmas break.
One such player who might be prepared to return for Barcelona in 2024 is seasoned defender Inigo Martinez.
Martinez nearing the end of his recuperation
Martinez is in the latter stages of his injury rehabilitation, and Javi Miguel of AS reports that he may be available for Xavi to use in Barcelona’s opening 2024 matchup against Las Palmas.
Recall that on December 3, Martinez sustained an injury during the pregame warm-up for the game against Atletico Madrid. He suffered a femoral biceps strain to his right thigh, and reports indicated that he would be sidelined for at least a month.
And everything suggests that this deadline will be fulfilled exactly, since the plan is for the player to be medically released on January 3 in order to be part of the team that plays Las Palmas.
Either way, the main goal is for the defender to be fully recovered in time for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final match against Osasuna, which takes place a week later.
Martinez is a valuable asset.
Martinez had become a valuable asset for Xavi and Barcelona prior to his injury, solidifying his place in the starting lineup following his recovery from an earlier setback.
The seasoned Spaniard was playing a dynamic role with his movement and ball use, commanding the defensive line.
Because he not only adds value with his ball-carrying abilities but also with his strength and physicality, his return will be greatly appreciated by Barcelona.
However, Martinez’s return would be problematic for players like Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde, who haven’t played at their best lately.
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