Gerard Martin is one of the young talents who is enjoying his debut season with the Barcelona first-team setup under Hansi Flick.
The Spanish left-back, after a shaky start to the season, appears to be making the most of his opportunities under the German tactician.
Despite competing directly with Alejandro Balde for a starting role, the former Cornella starlet has impressed in recent performances.
Gerard Martin could hit 1000 minutes vs Osasuna
On Saturday, Gerard Martin could achieve a significant milestone and hit 1,000 minutes played this season for Barcelona if he starts against Osasuna.
So far this season, the 23-year-old has played 25 matches across all competitions – 16 in La Liga, five in the UEFA Champions League, three in the Copa del Rey and one in the Spanish Super Cup.
Growing in stature. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Out of these, he has started nine times and come on as a substitute 16 times, recording one goal and two assists in 950 minutes played.
Last weekend, Martin scored a crucial goal against Real Sociedad in La Liga and followed it up with an impressive display off the bench vs. Benfica in the Champions League.
With Martin on the pitch, Barcelona have won 21 matches, drawn one and lost three – against AS Monaco (Champions League), Osasuna, and Las Palmas.
Alejandro Balde is clearly the first-choice left-back for Barça but could be given a rest by Flick after he picked up a knock against Benfica, although he did train normally today.
In case Balde is rested and Martin starts in his place against Osasuna, he could reach the 1,000-minute mark in his first season with the Barcelona senior team.