Relief for Barcelona as key defender will be fit for Real Madrid clash after injury scare | OneFootball

Barcelona were left with a major concern when key defender Inigo Martinez left the pitch holding his hamstring during the 76th minute of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg vs Inter Milan at San Siro.

The centre-back was physically struggling and immediately requested a substitution, with Ronald Araujo coming on in his place – a decision that may have cost the Catalans the game as the Uruguayan was partly culpable for the Nerazzurri’s last two goals.

No serious injury for Martinez

As for Martinez, Barcelona can breathe a sigh of relief as initial medical evaluations have ruled out a serious injury.

Indeed, according to AS, the issue has been diagnosed as a minor muscle overload. Barring any setbacks, Inigo is expected to be available for Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid at Montjuic.

The plan is for the 33-year-old centre-back to rejoin group training on Friday and complete it without complications.

Martinez left the pitch clutching his hamstring. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

This is a significant boost for Hansi Flick, who will be able to count on one of his defensive leaders against Real Madrid.

After all, Martinez is a key figure in Barcelona’s backline with his leadership, game-reading, organisational skills, and ball-playing abilities.

What about Alejandro Balde?

As for Alejandro Balde, his availability remains uncertain. The left-back is expected to receive medical clearance on Saturday, but he will not start.

That position currently belongs to Gerard Martin, who has earned his spot in the starting eleven after a couple of good displays in recent games.

Therefore, Flick is likely to repeat the same defensive setup used in the second leg against Inter: Eric Garcia at right-back, Pau Cubarsi and Martinez in central defence, and Martin on the left