‘We’re happy to remain unbeaten’… Inigo Martinez reacts after Villarreal 1-5 Barcelona | OneFootball

Hansi Flick’s Barcelona have had an incredible start to the La Liga season with six wins from six games so far. Last night, at Estadi de la Ceràmica, the Catalan club emerged 5-1 winners despite a number of setbacks during the game.

One player who has been ever present for the German coach this season is Inigo Martinez. After a difficult first season at the club, the ex-Athletic Bilbao star has come into his own and led a relatively young backline with utmost conviction.

Against Villarreal, the 33-year-old Barcelona veteran had a daunting task of marshaling both Sergi Dominguez and Gerard Martin, two young defenders who haven’t played much so far this season. It’s safe to say that the Spaniard passed with flying colors.

Having Inigo and Pau Cubarsi as the central defensive partnership feels like a cheat code. The former is an expert with cross-field passes to find Lamine Yamal or Raphinha on either wing while the latter is an expert at breaking lines of pressure with his incredible vision.

Post-game, Inigo got a chance to speak to the media and reflected on the team’s impressive performance against Villarreal. As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, here is what he had to say:

“Obviously, we knew it was a tough game because Villarreal was right behind us in the standings. We played well, and we showed that we’re still in great shape despite the setback in the Champions League.”

“It was difficult to turn the game around in Monaco with 10 men, but we still did well, and today we proved it again. Despite missing a penalty, we created many chances. We’re happy to remain unbeaten.”

“The team is doing well. We’re capable of competing against anyone and we’re creating a lot of chances. We’re solid both at the back and upfront. When the team is united, everything flows, and you can see that. New players come in to provide rest, and they don’t miss a beat.”

“It’s a joy to see a team like this, to see young players enjoying themselves and taking that step forward, even though it’s difficult. That’s what we, the more experienced players, are here for, to try and help them. The result is brilliant, except for what happened to Marc, which no one likes.”

The 33-year-old also had a word of support to Marc-Andre Ter Stegen who was stretchered off against Villarreal just before half-time. He continued:

“These are difficult moments for everyone; it’s not easy for anyone. Seeing a teammate like that always hurts, and even more so when it’s our captain. Now it’s up to all of us to support him. This victory is for him, for all the support he’s given us and will continue to give, despite this setback.”

With Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen still injured, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick will need Inigo to continue his good form and keep helping the team out. His partnership with Cubarsi is paying dividends and one can only hope it continues.

Ter Stegen’s injury is a cloud that dissipates the happiness out of an impressive win away at Villarreal. Let’s hope Inaki Pena can step into his shoes and make sure we don’t miss our club captain until he comes back.