Barcelona continues to secure victories, once again demonstrating defensive solidity in their 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano. However, this match left a clear conclusion for Hansi Flick: he now has the perfect center-back duo, with Inigo Martinez being one of the key beneficiaries.
The Basque center-back appeared as a solid wall in defense, showing confidence, leadership, and anticipation that completely convinced the German coach.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper “El Nacional,” Inigo’s high level of performance, along with the ongoing brilliance of Pau Cubarsi, led Flick to make a crucial decision: Ronald Araujo has lost his place in the starting lineup.
When Inigo Martinez joined Barcelona, many considered him a player for the bench, but he has now become an indispensable part of the squad. His veteran status and experience have been crucial in defense, especially at a time when Cubarsi continues to grow rapidly.
In the match against Rayo Vallecano, Inigo once again showed why Flick trusts him. He was solid in aerial duels, precise in ball distribution, and had excellent positioning, allowing him to deliver top-level performances. Alongside him, Pau Cubarsi was untouchable. Despite his youth, the young player showed remarkable maturity and earned the respect of both the locker room and Flick. The partnership of Inigo and Cubarsi worked perfectly, and based on their performances, it seems they will be the preferred defensive duo going forward.
This situation puts Ronald Araujo in a very delicate position. The Uruguayan defender, considered one of the best in the world in recent years, has gone from being an irreplaceable player to losing his place in Flick’s plans. In the Rayo Vallecano match, Araujo was once again left out of the lineup. Flick opted for the Inigo-Cubarsi pairing, and this decision doesn’t seem likely to change in the near future. The German coach prefers Inigo’s smart playing style and Cubarsi’s tactical intelligence, qualities that Araujo, with his more physical and aggressive approach, doesn’t offer to the same degree.
This change in the starting lineup wasn’t a coincidence. In recent matches, Araujo has made mistakes that cost the team dearly. His red card against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League was a turning point, and since then, his form has noticeably declined.
With this situation, rumors about Araujo’s departure in the summer are gaining momentum. Premier League teams, such as Manchester United and Chelsea, have shown interest in signing him. Barcelona may consider selling him if a tempting offer comes in, especially given the club’s financial struggles.
The Rayo Vallecano match highlighted that Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi are Flick’s preferred defensive options. Araujo will have to wait for his chance, but for now, it seems his place in Barcelona’s starting lineup is slipping further away.