Barcelona are gearing up for a crucial Champions League match-up against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
This will be the first of the two-legged quarterfinal clash against last season’s Champions League runner-up.
Barcelona are coming on the back of a disappointing 1-1 draw with Real Betis, where the team was without the services of a few key players, including Inigo Martinez.
Inigo Martinez likely to be available vs Dortmund
However, a recent report from MARCA has suggested that Inigo Martinez should return in time for the first-leg clash against Dortmund.
The veteran defender had missed out against Real Betis owing to a minor injury. He was even in a position to play against Manuel Pellegrini’s men, but coach Hansi Flick opted to proceed with caution.
That is the reason he was left out against Real Betis. But the defender should be back in action against Dortmund, which could serve as a major boost for Barcelona.
The idea is to have Martinez back in team training on Monday so that he can gradually recover his fitness and be match-ready by Wednesday.
Martinez’s return could be significant considering his combination and understanding with Pau Cubarsi at the heart of Barcelona’s backline.
Not to mention, the Spaniard’s aerial prowess and ability to read the game could prove to be vital against a Dortmund side boasting Serhou Guirassy, one of the most physically sound strikers in the Champions League this season.
If everything goes well, Martinez should start against Dortmund, playing a key leadership role in Flick’s defensive line which will look to neutralise Dortmund’s quick and sharp attacking force.
