The newspaper “Sport” revealed the nickname one of Barcelona’s stars has acquired among the Catalan club’s players after his remarkable performances this season.
Barça faced a real crisis in the center-back position after the sudden departure of Iñigo Martínez last summer to Al-Nassr, without a replacement being signed.
Coach Hansi Flick continued to rely on Ronald Araujo, while awaiting the return of Andreas Christensen from injury, until things changed in recent weeks.
The German coach was forced to play Gerard Martín in the center-back position after Araujo’s psychological breakdown, and the surprise was the young player’s explosive performance.
According to “Sport,” Martín is currently nicknamed “Maldini” by Barcelona players.
This nickname for Martín originated with Barcelona fans on social media, then was chanted by Catalan supporters outside the team’s hotel, before spreading to Flick’s squad.
Thanks to the impressive performances of the 23-year-old, Barcelona have reversed their earlier decision to enter the upcoming winter transfer window in search of a new center-back.
It’s worth noting that Araujo will leave Barcelona this summer at the latest, as will Christensen, leaving only Martin, Pau Coparsi, Jules Koundé, and Eric García as options for center-back next season.
