Barcelona defender Gerard Martin could be handed more opportunities to operate at left-back following Andreas Christensen’s return from injury.

Martin has primarily featured in central defence under Hansi Flick this season, establishing a solid partnership with Pau Cubarsi despite originally playing as a left-back.

However, according to Barca Universal, citing Spanish publication AS, Christensen’s return could prompt Flick to reconsider Martin’s role in the team.

The Denmark international recently recovered from a thigh injury that had kept him sidelined for almost two months, providing Barcelona with another option in central defence.

His availability could now allow Martin to return to his preferred position in certain matches without leaving the Catalan giants short of options at centre-back.

Flick’s Tactical Changes In Barcelona’s Victory Of Atletico

Flick experimented with the adjustment during Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday.

Christensen was introduced in the second half to strengthen the defence, with Martin subsequently moving to left-back following Joao Cancelo’s substitution.

The tactical switch helped Barcelona maintain greater defensive stability in the closing stages as they secured an important victory over Diego Simeone’s side.

Martin has impressed with his versatility since establishing himself in Barcelona’s first team, adapting to the demands of central defence despite being naturally suited to playing on the left.

His partnership with Cubarsi has provided Flick with a reliable defensive combination, although Christensen’s return could give the German tactician greater flexibility in selecting his backline.

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s options at left-back remain limited, with Alejandro Balde struggling for regular playing time and Xavi Espart currently sidelined through injury.

This leaves Cancelo and Martin as the two main alternatives available to Flick.

While Cancelo offers greater attacking threat and creativity going forward, his defensive positioning has raised concerns in difficult encounters.

Martin, on the other hand, provides a more defensive-minded option, with his positional awareness and discipline potentially proving useful against stronger opposition.

The 24-year-old’s ability to operate in different defensive positions could therefore become increasingly important as Barcelona navigate a demanding schedule.