Barcelona have two options to slot in during Inigo Martinez’s injury absence

Just when things seem to be looking up for Barcelona, it seems like there is always some form of bad news to dampen the mood.

As Barcelona secured progression to the Round of 16 of the Champions League and toppled Atletico Madrid and La Liga, they were hit with another injury setback.

With the crushing blow of Gavi’s long-term injury still weighing heavily, the Catalans have also lost Marc Andre ter Stegen for an extended period as he is due to undergo back surgery.

During the warmup against the clash with Porto, Barcelona also lost Inigo Martinez, who suffered a right thigh injury.

As the Spaniard is set to return only in 2024, Mundo Deprortivo report that Xavi has already found two alternatives to his problems internally.

Alonso and Cubarsi to step up

According to the Spanish outlet, one key alternative is to have Marcos Alonso play as a makeshift centre-back when necessary.

The veteran defender has already been deployed there on a number of occasions previously after Alejandro Balde rose to prominence.

The second alternative would be to bet on youth team prospect Pau Cubarsi.

Having mightily impressed at the U17 EURO and the U17 World Cup this year, he will be involved in first team training and could well make his senior bow for Barcelona.

These are all backup options, however, as Barcelona still have three natural centre-backs in Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde to keep the first-choice backline intact.

What about Mikayil Faye?

The youngster, who joined from NK Kustosija earlier this year has become a regular for Rafa Marquez’s Barça Atletic.

His versatility and incredible physical prowess have impressed, but MD state that there are still some details that need fine-tuning in his game before he gets a shot in the first team.

Even so, Faye is showing tremendous potential and the club are already reportedly impressed, making comparisons of him with Ronald Araujo.