Inigo Martinez to make his Barca debut before the international break

At the age of 32, Inigo Martinez is preparing to play for a non-Basque team for the first time in his career, after eight years with Real Sociedad and five with Athletic. His debut for Barcelona was slightly delayed by plantar fasciitis in his right foot.

'Sport' now reports that the centre-back is ready to take part in collective training on Wednesday, but is not yet expected to be in the squad for the trip to Villarreal on Sunday afternoon (17:30).

However, the Spanish international's first call-up should be against Osasuna on Sunday 3rd September, the last match before the two-week international break.

As a reminder, Ronald Araujo's injury poses a problem for Xavi at the back in the coming games. After the international break, the arrival of the Champions League will increase the number of matches on the calendar.