Barcelona manage to finally get past 2023 and their rather mediocre conclusion to the year. However, if they hope to ensure that 2024 is a much more positive half for their season, they have their work cut out for them. Ultimately, Barcelona will have to overcome various obstacles to make their dreams a reality.
Even January, the very first month of the new year, brings with it a lot of big challenges. Barcelona will first take on UD Las Palmas, a quest for which they hope to enlist Vitor Roque’s help. However, right afterwards, they have to take on Barbastro in the Copa Del Ray.
Fortunately for Barcelona, they may have a very special recruit returning for that clash. As stated by Xavi Hernandez himself in his latest press conference, Spanish defender Inigo Martinez will be back by the time Barça take on Barbastro.
Speaking about the possibility of Martinez being in the squad for Las Palmas, Xavi gave an updated reply (h/t Barca Insider):
“Inigo Martínez won’t be available tomorrow but he’ll be back for the Copa del Rey.”
This comes as great news for Barcelona, who are also expecting Pedri to return sometime this month. Inigo Martinez, on the other hand, will be a very welcome return. The defender was arguably playing at his best level before his unfortunate injury. However, his return gives Barça both a competent defender back and a lethal passer.
He took part in the latest training as well, possibly prompting people to believe he could feature against Las Palmas. However, Xavi and Barcelona remain clear and cautious with their injured players. Martinez must be very close to returning, however, given Xavi’s claim about his return date.
Nevertheless, he would help Barcelona out a lot in several ways. Barbastro undoubtedly could be a tricky opponent, and Barça are not willing to take any chances. Thus, the sooner they welcome back their injured stars, the better.
