FC Barcelona Portraits - UEFA Champions League 2026/27
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Gerard Martin of FC Barcelona poses during the official UEFA Champions League 2026/27 portrait session on August 29, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Luis Mazariegos Luis Mazariegos has been a lead writer and editor for Barca Blaugranes since 2012, bringing tactical analysis, transfer reports, opinion columns, and investigative coverage to the SB Nation network. An award-winning journalist, he has held press credentials for Champions League and La Liga fixtures – reporting live from the stadium, press box, and press conferences. He frequently provides commentary as a guest on football podcasts and radio shows. In addition to his sports media work, Luis spent over a decade in broadcast television and currently serves as an editor for a major digital news network.
FC Barcelona have begun the process of renewing defender Gerard Martín’s contract, per multiple reports. The 24-year-old footballer has risen through the ranks and become an important part of manager Hansi Flick’s set-up.
Barça are said to be looking to tie him up for longer, with a bigger release clause and a higher salary. There is reportedly no hurry on either side, as he has a contract until 2028. There is a sense of optimism surrounding the negotations, as the team is happy with his performances and the player wants to stay.
Barça reportedly see him continuing to be a key part of the squad and possibly even improving as time goes on. A Barcelona native, Martín was a product of UE Cornellà’s academy before going to Barcelona’s B team. Reports say he’s happy to stay with his hometown club.
So far, there have been no concrete negotiations or even a set date for a meeting on the matter. All that has been reported are preliminary conversations.
A left-back by training, he has broken through as a center-back under Flick. With Ronald Araujo on loan to Liverpool FC, Barça are set to use Martín often this season alongside Pau Cubarsí. There was talk of a potential center-back signing, though none came. Andreas Christensen has split duties as the other center-back to start this season. Barça also has Eric Garcia, though he often plays as a full-back.
Martín was recently injured after a blow to the face in the win against Levante, though he is expected to recover quickly.