How Mika Faye’s pre-season form could impact another Barcelona star’s future

The impressive early pre-season endeavours showcased by Barcelona starlet Mikayil Faye could yet have a less-than-positive impact on another member of the club’s defensive ranks.

That’s according to Barca insider Gerard Romero, who has provided an insight into the latest developments behind the scenes in Catalunya’s capital.

The aforementioned Faye, for his part, has of course been widely tipped to be on the move before the summer is out.

The 19-year-old is held in high regard across the continent, with the logjam at the heart of Barcelona’s backline, coupled with the Blaugrana’s search for fresh funds, meaning that he could well be sold, for the right price.

As much had looked a near certainty a mere matter of weeks ago, as Portuguese heavyweights Porto initiated a concerted push for Faye’s signature.

If the latest word stemming from the media is anything to go by, however, then the situation no longer looks as clear cut.

As per a mounting number of sources, Faye has impressed new Blaugrana head coach Hansi Flick and his coaching staff with his efforts during pre-season to date.

So much so that, should the Senegalese international continue along his current trajectory, he could beat out another of Barca’s defenders to a place in boss Flick’s setup in 2024/25

The player in question comes in the form of Iñigo Martínez.

As per Gerard Romero, veteran stopper Iñigo’s situation is somewhat up in the air at present, owing to fellow left-footed central defender Faye being viewed in a hugely positive light by his new manager.

It now remains to be seen whether the former can do enough to convince Flick of the merits of keeping hold of him for next season…

Conor Laird | GSFN