‘I don’t want to leave’… 23-year-old Barcelona player talks about his future, more competition, and the Nico Williams operation

FC Barcelona's summer transfer window has focused on internal adjustments rather than major signings. The club prioritized player renewals and exits, securing extensions for Wojciech Szczesny and finalizing Lamine Yamal's renewal. Departures like Pablo Torre and Ansu Fati generated income and freed up significant funds.

Amidst exit discussions, 23-year-old left-back Gerard Martin's future has been a topic. Despite Alejandro Balde being the undisputed starter, Martin expressed clear motivations in an interview. He stated his collective goal is to "win everything" and his personal aim is to "always improve on last season and keep growing." He firmly denied wanting to leave, saying, "I'm really happy here at Barça, and I don't want to leave," and emphasized his hope for the coach and club's faith in him.

Martin also addressed potential squad competition calmly, stating, "No, I'm calm... competition is good—it helps everyone improve." He commented positively on new signing Joan Garcia, calling him a "great signing" who was "good and happy." Regarding the failed move for Nico Williams, Martin admitted limited knowledge, simply noting, "It seemed like he was going to come, but in the end, he didn't."

Martin enters the new season as an established Barcelona player, benefiting from coach Hansi Flick already knowing him from the previous campaign.