Barcelona young duo pick up injuries on international duty | OneFootball

Although the summer has not quite started yet, Barcelona have been dealt two blows on the very first day of the UEFA U21 European Championship.

Two of the club’s players in Pablo Torre and Gerard Martin, have both picked up injuries during Spain’s opening game against Slovakia, reports Diario SPORT.

Martin was the first to come off after sustaining a blow to his wrist just two minutes into the match.

Despite continuing through the first half in discomfort, struggling especially with throw-ins, the left-back was subbed off at halftime with Spain holding a 2-0 lead.

Shortly after the equaliser, Pablo Torre became the second casualty. The attacking midfielder was pulled back by Slovakian midfielder Nebyla, lost his balance, and landed awkwardly.

He needed help from the medical staff to get up, but was fortunately able to walk off under his own power before heading straight to the bench.

A big blow for Barcelona

Martin and Torre’s injuries could serve as a massive blow for Barcelona, especially ahead of a long summer transfer window.

Gerard Martin is one of two injuries casualties for Barcelona during Spain U21’s opening game against Slovakia U21 (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

The two players, after all, are not particularly key components in Hansi Flick’s setup and the Catalans, therefore, are open to offloading them in the summer.

Before the transfer window opens again, Barça were hoping the two players to perform well in the U21 Euros, so that their market value goes up.

This was particularly relevant in Torre’s case as Barcelona are determined to find a suitor for the midfielder this summer.

Barça were even open to terminating Torre’s contract, although recent reports suggest they could consider a renewal, which will allow them more control over the player’s future.

Martin, on the other hand, is considered the backup for Alejandro Balde at left-back, but he too is attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League.

As such, the U21 Euros was an ideal platform for Martin to make his presence felt. But thanks to the injury, his progress will be stalled ahead of a long summer, where Barcelona might consider selling the player for a quick profit.