Barcelona is experiencing its best season in recent years after the Catalan team’s historic start to the league, currently sitting at the top of the standings with 33 points, 9 points ahead of their closest rival, Real Madrid.
Barcelona defeated Serbian side Red Star Belgrade 5-2 away in the fourth round of the Champions League group stage.
Barcelona’s first-team star is close to leaving the Blaugrana in the upcoming winter transfer window.
Press reports have confirmed that Barcelona left-back Gerard Martin will depart for a Spanish league club next January, by decision of German coach Hansi Flick.
According to information from the Catalan newspaper “Sport”, Barcelona’s talented La Masia full-back Gerard Martin is on the radar of Real Betis, either for a loan or a permanent transfer.
The newspaper added that the level of performance Martin displayed in the last match against Red Star Belgrade confirmed Flick’s decision to part ways with the player, as he was the weakest performer in the Barcelona squad despite the big win.
The newspaper also mentioned that Flick is not convinced by Martin’s abilities, believing he doesn’t defend well and lacks offensive contributions. Most of the opponent’s attacks come down his flank, which is why the best solution is for him to leave in January.
The report further explained that Betis is in negotiations with the player to secure his signing in January, and Flick’s decisive decision to allow him to leave will likely finalize the deal with Real Betis in the coming days.
The newspaper concluded by stating that Flick was upfront with the player, telling him that he must leave in search of an opportunity to play regularly and improve his development. If he performs well with coach Manuel Pellegrini’s team, he may have the chance to return at the end of the season.