Official: Barcelona defender’s new shirt number confirmed after registration | OneFootball

Earlier today, FC Barcelona finally registered Gerard Martin in La Liga. After missing the first two games, the left-back will be available for the match against Rayo Vallecano in the third round of the league.

Following his registration, Martin’s new shirt number for the season was also confirmed, with the defender set to take the #18 – following his first-team registration.

During the 2024/25 season, while registered with Barça Atletic, he wore the No. 35.

The No. 18 shirt had become vacant this season following the departure of Pau Victor, who wore it during the 2024/25 season. Now, the 23-year-old left-back will take over the number.

Courtesy: La Liga official website

As it so happens, Martin’s choice is not a random choice. During a past interview, the left-back admitted that his idol is Jordi Alba, one of the most successful full-backs in Barcelona’s history.

“I’m from Cornella too, so watching Alba at Barça inspired me. He played in my position, and I’ve always been a fan,” Martin had said.

The Barça legend, now at Inter Miami, wore the No. 18 from the 2012/13 season until 2022/23, during which he amassed a whole lot of trophies.

Now, Martin takes ownership of the number that was once worn by his role model, aiming to establish himself in Barcelona’s starting eleven and achieve great success.

With Martin now registered, Barcelona still have pending the registrations of Wojciech Szczesny and Roony Bardghji to tackle before Sunday’s game.