Gerard Martin dismisses talk of Barcelona exit as left-back returns for surgery following injury in U21 Euro opener

Gerard Martin has returned to Barca after sustaining a hand injury during Spain's 3-2 victory over Slovakia in the opening match of the Under-21 European Championship. The 23-year-old dislocated the fifth metacarpal in his right hand and is slated to undergo surgery, ruling him out for the remainder of the tournament.

Despite recent rumours of a potential exit from the Spanish club, Martin confirmed that he remains committed to Barcelona. The left-back stated he is "happy and focused" on the club and believes the coaching staff are satisfied with his progress. His absence from the U21 Euros is a blow to Spain, but he is expected to recover in time for Barcelona's preseason under star manager Hansi Flick.

Gerard Martin addressed the rumours, telling reporters: “I'm not paying attention to the rumors. I'm happy and focused on Barça, I'm happy with my season. I think the staff is also happy with me, with my growth and what I still have to improve. I'm not thinking about anything other than Barca, so I'm calm."

Martin will undergo surgery in Barcelona and is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks. If recovery proceeds without complications, he is likely to be available for the pre-season training, which is reported to start on July 13. The defender so far aims to compete for a place in Flick's squad amid interest from other clubs.