The 2024/2025 season saw Barcelonas defensive structure flourish under Hansi Flick, largely thanks to the intelligent partnership between Iñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí.
Their complementary traits, Martínez’s composure, aerial strength, and leadership, combined with Cubarsí’s anticipation, timing, and distribution, created a balanced pairing that perfectly suited Flick’s high defensive line.
Supported by the full-backs Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé, Barcelona often displayed remarkable control both in and out of possession.
However, the summer of 2025 brought a major change, as Iñigo’s move to Al-Nassr disrupted this defensive equilibrium.
Over the first 13 matches of the 2025/2026 campaign, Flick has experimented with several partners alongside Cubarsí, including Ronald Araújo, Eric García, and Andreas Christensen, but none have fully replicated the harmony once achieved.
In this data analysis, we will examine the statistical impact of Martínez’s departure and explore the most effective and realistic defensive solution for Barcelona’s current high line.
Iñigo Martínez Defensive Profile 2024/2025 The Backbone Of Hansi Flick High Line
Iñigo Martínez’s 2024/2025 campaign embodied the perfect mix of aggression, anticipation and composure that defined Barcelona’s defensive revival under Hansi Flick.
Iñigo Martínez Defensive Profile 2024/2025 (Under Hansi Flick)
Iñigo Martínez Defensive Profile – 2024/2025 (Under Hansi Flick)
Iñigo Martínez Defensive Profile – 2024/2025 (Under Hansi Flick)
Across the season, Martínez showcased elite reading of the game, averaging over four interceptions and 10 recoveries per match, with several standout displays such as against Atlético Madrid (eight defensive duels won, four interceptions, 21 recoveries) and Mallorca (five aerial duels won, 10 recoveries).
His efficiency in duels (70 out of 99 defensive duels won) and reliability in 1-v-1 situations made him a natural anchor for Flick’s high defensive line.
Beyond his num
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