Inigo Martinez reveals which Barcelona player loses focus the most while playing high-line | OneFootball

Hansi Flick has successfully adapted this FC Barcelona team to his ideas and style of play in a relatively short period. The team is already playing in a manner quite distinct from how it did under Xavi, and the results demonstrate that these new methods are paying dividends for the Blaugranes.

With 37 goals scored in just 11 league matches so far, the offensive side of the team is naturally the most noteworthy. However, the Catalans have also defended impressively, and one of their defensive tactics—the offside trap—has been attracting considerable attention from commentators.

Pau Cubarsí recently explained how this tactic has worked for the team, and now, in an interview with SPORT, Iñigo Martínez has also shared some interesting insights on the topic.

The Spanish defender acknowledged that this approach is risky for defenders, but the chemistry in the backline allows them to execute it flawlessly:

“Obviously, when you have quick forwards who know your style and you see 50 meters of open space behind you, of course, it’s tough. It’s not easy at all, but when the back four coordinate so well, we’re confident that 9 times out of 10, they’ll be caught offside. So, we take the risk—that’s our way of playing. It’s working well for us, and we’ll keep at it.”

The former Athletic Club center-back also mentioned one of his teammates whom he has to scold the most to keep this tactic effective, as they tend to lose focus the most when maintaining the high line:

“Honestly, Balde. Balde is the most absent-minded one out of everyone in the backline, although Jules can be too from time to time. But I’m much closer to Balde, and it’s true that he has to put up with me quite a bit during the game.”

In his second season at Barcelona, Iñigo Martínez is emerging as a clear leader in defense, and his latest comments highlight this role. His contributions are vital for the success of Flick’s defensive tactics, and, as his remarks make clear, they involve not only his actions on the ball but also his leadership of the Barcelona backline.