Inigo Martinez admits Lamine Yamal injury has had an impact on the Blaugrana.
Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has admitted that one of the reasons for the Blaugrana’s stumbling performances, which have seen them pick up just a point from their last two games against Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo, is the absence of Lamine Yamal, with the 17-year-old forward suffering an ankle injury.
‘We know how important he is, I won’t deny it, he gives us a lot, he makes defenders back, he scares them, he’s important for the team but that doesn’t mean the next player that comes on won’t be on the same level. I have no doubt that everyone who comes on will give 100 or 200 per cent. On days when Lamine is gone and we win, that won’t be talked about, there are enough players in the team to win every game,’ said Inigo.
When asked about his role as a team leader, what does it mean to be one of the senior players over 30, along with Robert Lewandowski and Marc-Andre ter Stegen?
‘Nothing else but giving 100 per cent in the game, in the dressing room, that’s my job and everyone else’s job, punctuality, respect for others, like any other job, you always try to help the young players, to let go a little bit because they can come with the fear that the first team has, enjoy themselves, if they want to tell a joke, let them do it and you will see, you can see on the pitch that they are having fun and contributing a lot.’
Inaki Peña, the 25-year-old goalkeeper, is another who has stepped up after Ter Stegen’s injury and has played a key role in the Clasico as he looks to cement his place as the No. 1 on a permanent basis. When Inigo was ask if he had noticed a change in his confidence,
‘He’s so cold that I don’t know what he’s thinking. We’re delight. He’s a good guy, he’s different and unique. You see him work and when you get a chance you jump and perform. The trainer and the club have full confidence in him.’
‘He’s been here for years, he’s so calm I don’t think he’s ever left his comfort zone. He’s showing what a great goalkeeper he is.’