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-four Barcelona fans 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 through the inclusion of Inigo Martinez. The Athletic Club defender is set to sign with the club on a Bosman deal.
Xavi’s blueprint for next season’s defence, featuring centre-backs is clear, as reported by SPORT. It features Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, and Inigo Martinez as the four centre-backs.
Chadi Riad of Barcelona Atletic 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, reports have suggested that he has been placed on the transfer market by Barcelona. 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. With Barcelona going for a pivot in the summer, it seems unlikely that he will get time in either position next season.
