By decision of the German coach Hansi Flick: Barcelona has settled on the first departure in January
Barcelona is enjoying one of its best seasons in recent years, with a historic start to the league. The team currently leads the standings with 33 points, 9 ahead of second-place Real Madrid. In the Champions League, Barcelona secured a 5-2 victory over Serbian club Red Star Belgrade in the fourth round of the group stage.
However, a key player is set to leave the club in the upcoming winter transfer window. Reports indicate that Barcelona’s left-back, Gerard Martin, will be moving to a Spanish league team in January, following a decision made by German coach Hansi Flick. According to the Catalan newspaper *Sport*, Martin, a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, is reportedly being targeted by Real Betis, who may either loan him or sign him permanently.
The report also noted that Martin’s performance in the match against Red Star Belgrade, where he was one of the weakest performers despite the win, played a significant role in Flick’s decision. Flick is said to have concerns about Martin’s defensive capabilities and his lack of offensive impact, especially as many of the opposition’s attacks came down his side.
Betis is reportedly in talks with Martin for a potential January move, and the deal is expected to be finalized soon, with Flick encouraging Martin to leave for more regular playing time and further development. If he performs well under Betis’ coach Manuel Pellegrini, there could be a possibility of a return to Barcelona at the end of the season.