Hansi Flick has made his first show of authority at Barça. The German coach, newly arrived, doesn't want economic problems to stop his sporting plan.
He has sent a clear message to Joan Laporta and Deco: he wants Gerard Martín to be registered immediately. For him, the young left-back isn't just a simple option. He's a key player and he needs him now to face a schedule that will be demanding from day one.
Flick wants to have all his important men available from the start. He doesn't want improvisations or delays. He knows every point counts and that the season won't give any respite.
Gerard Martín, ready to make the leap
Gerard Martín broke through last season with strength, and he took advantage of every opportunity the coaching staff gave him. He showed character, defensive reliability, and a remarkable ability to join the attack. He was one of the pleasant surprises of the campaign.
His natural position is left-back. However, his reading of the game allows him to adapt to different situations. Flick especially values his left-footed profile, which is scarce in the squad, and his tactical intelligence. He believes he has the physique, composure, and vision to compete at the highest level right away.
As of today, he still doesn't have an official spot due to pending salary adjustments. Meanwhile, that's the point that frustrates the new coach. For him, postponing the registration unnecessarily slows the player's progress.
The challenge for Laporta and Deco
Laporta and Deco know the problem well. The club's economic situation requires freeing up salary mass before registering all the pending players. Gerard Martín is on that list.
The board's plan is to finalize departures and renegotiate contracts to comply with financial fair play. It's not an easy task, but Flick's pressure could change the priorities. The German has made it clear that he wants to start the season with all his pieces available.
The board will have to decide whether to prioritize his case over others. The feeling is that, if the club wants to bet on a project with young homegrown players, this registration should be solved quickly.
A sign for the future
Flick's insistence isn't just an immediate sporting matter. It's also a deeper message: he trusts the talent from the youth academy. He wants a Barça that integrates its young players and gives them real prominence.
For Gerard Martín, the registration would mean a definitive leap. He would stop being a promise and become a full first-team player. For the club, it would be a bet for both the present and the future.
Now, the outcome depends on the offices. If the situation is solved, Flick will have a left-back he trusts completely. Barça will gain a player who can make a difference in the coming season.