Heading into the 2022/23 season, Barcelona’s first-choice back-four consisted of Jules Kounde as the right-back, Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia as the centre-back pairing, while Alejandro Balde provided width from the left.
However, as the season went on, Andreas Christensen replaced Garcia as the first-choice centre-back alongside Araujo, forming a back-fourBarcelonafɑɴȿ dubbed as ‘B.A.C.K.’.
Christensen proved to be one of Barcelona’s most consistent performers across the season, forming excellent chemistry with the rest of the backline. However, his, among other injuries, derailed the Catalans’ season in the Champions League.
Barcelona, more than aware about this, are set to reinforce their defence next season thɾօυɢҺ the inclusion of Inigo Martinez. The Athletic Club defєɴԀer is set to sign with the club on a Bosman Ԁєɑł.
Xavi’s blueprint for next season’s defence, featuring centre-backs is clear, as ɾєρօɾτed bySPORT. It featuresAndreas Christensen,Jules Kounde,Ronald Araujo, andInigo Martinezas the four centre-backs.
Chadi RiadofBarcelonaAtletic will act as the fifth-choice centre-back in this scenario, and could receive regular call-ups for the senior-team.
As far as Eric Garcia is concerned, ɾєρօɾτs have suggested that he hasbeen placed on the transfer marketbyBarcelona. They are not particularly convinced with his performances and are ready to let him go.
Further, the Spaniard was already the fifth-choice CB in the squad behind Araujo, Christensen, Kounde, and even Marcos Alonso. Inigo’s arrival could push him down even further.
He did, however, play as a defensive midfielder at times this season, but without much success. WithBarcelonagoing for a pivot in the summer, it seems unlikely that he will get time in either position next season.
