After an intense match against Levante at Camp Nou, Barcelona is shifting focus to another crucial La Liga game against Villarreal.
The Catalans have welcomed back key players including Pedri and Marcus Rashford. However, coach Hansi Flick will miss a key defender for the Villarreal match.
Gerard Martin received a yellow card during stoppage time in the first half against Levante. Despite the foul appearing minor, the referee issued the yellow, marking Martin's fifth of the season, which means he will miss the next game.
Martin's absence justifies Flick's decision to bench Pau Cubarsi against Levante. The young defender will be fresh and ready to start against Villarreal, with Ronald Araujo likely serving as a backup.
Additionally, Joao Cancelo performed well as a left-back against Levante, providing a solid alternative to Alejandro Balde in that position.
Therefore, Barcelona should manage Martin's one-match suspension without major issues. Flick, however, ideally wanted Eric Garcia available for the next game against Athletic Club, their opponent following Villarreal.
