The thrilling 3-3 draw between Barcelona and Inter Milan in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final not only kept the tie wide open heading into the decisive second leg at San Siro but also exposed a glaring weakness in Barcelona’s current squad planning.
The match served as a crucial turning point, underlining the need for immediate improvements within the team structure, particularly in the left-back position.
As reported by Spanish outlet El Nacional, one of the most significant takeaways from that encounter was the underwhelming performance of Gerard Martin. The young defender, tasked with stepping in for the injured Alejandro Balde, struggled throughout the first half to cope with the intensity and high stakes of a European semi-final.
His difficulties defending against Inter’s attack forced head coach Hansi Flick to substitute him at halftime, a decision that, though not publicly criticized, made it clear that Flick was unwilling to take further risks in such crucial matches.
Sources close to Barcelona’s technical staff have confirmed that unless Balde recovers in time for the second leg, veteran Inigo Martinez will likely be deployed as a makeshift left-back to provide the defensive security the team lacked in the first leg. This situation has sparked urgent discussions within the club’s hierarchy about reinforcing the squad during the summer transfer window.
Club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco both acknowledge that entering a new season without a solid, experienced alternative to Balde would be a strategic error. The duo has already started working on identifying reliable options to bolster the squad’s depth on the left flank.
Among the names being considered, Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo stands out as a top candidate. The Spanish defender has enjoyed an outstanding campaign under coach Xabi Alonso, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win and impressing in European competitions. His consistent performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs, bringing him back into the spotlight.
Barcelona’s management views Grimaldo as an ideal signing not only because of his technical qualities and European experience but also due to his connection with the club’s academy, which could ease his transition.
Additionally, his market value is considered more affordable compared to other international targets. Grimaldo’s versatility would also offer Flick the option to switch formations, using him in both traditional defensive roles and more advanced attacking setups.
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