The injury of Lamine Yamal has marked the week leading up to FC Barcelona's last match of 2024. During the blue and claret team's 'Media day', Iñigo Martínez spoke with 'Gol Play' about the impact of the youth player's absence ahead of the match against Atlético de Madrid and the first two weeks of January. For the center-back, the absence of '19' will not weigh as much as many think.
"There is plenty of squad depth to cover for Lamine despite what he gives us. Whoever plays will give 100% and contribute the same or more than he does," assured the Basque center-back. In that sense, the '5' went further when asked about the culé 'Lamine dependence' this season. "We do not win or lose because of one player. Look at the last match, he was there and we lost", added the Ondarroa native.
However, Iñigo did not hesitate to praise the blue and claret winger, whom he considers "a differential player". "He generates a lot and attracts many opponents, which creates spaces where he can receive the ball," explained the experienced Spanish defender. Hansi Flick has counted on Martínez in 23 of the 24 matches of Barça this season, making him the player who has played the most minutes so far with the team.
Iñigo Martínez reveals the key to nullifying Atlético de Madrid
Regarding the match against the 'colchoneros', the Basque revealed the aspect he considers could be key for Barça to return to the winning path and, in addition, finish the year as leaders of LaLiga. "We hope there are no distractions. That could tip the balance one way or the other," explained the defender.
In this regard, he valued the good present of the 'rojiblanco' team, although he emphasized his confidence in a blue and claret victory. "It's a great Atlético, they are very confident and we arrive a bit irregular in spirits, but I have no doubt that if we are well and at the level we should be, we will be a superior team and everything will go well," pointed out Iñigo.