Xavi was forced to use Jules Kounde as the team’s right-back for the majority of the 2016–2017 campaign. Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen were responsible for covering the middle of the defense. The defense was completed by Alejandro Balde, who was the fourth member of the illustrious ‘B.A.C.K.’ quartet.

In point of fact, during the 2022–2023 season, Barcelona were arguably most known for their defense, and of course, the heroics of Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Marc-Andre ter Stegen helped the squad set a record for the top-five leagues by keeping a record-setting 26 clean sheets.

However, things will be different this year because the Catalans have loaned Joao Cancelo to Manchester City from the club they play for, FC Barcelona. The club has made significant strides forward creatively, but it is no longer the defensive powerhouse that it was the previous year.

But before they settled on Cancelo, the club had their sights set on securing the services of Girona’s outstanding Arnau Martinez. Both Manchester United and Real Madrid had an interest in the young player, but neither club ultimately placed an offer to acquire his services.

According to a report by 90min, both teams now face new competition in the form of Manchester City, who wants to strengthen its right-back position. This news comes as a result of the publication.

Arnau, a male, was sought after.

The likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Aston Villa are also keeping eyes on Arnau as they compete with Manchester City for his signing. Manchester City is just one of many teams that are interested in Arnau’s services.

Aside from that, teams such as Bayern Munich, Napoli, AS Roma, and Bayer Leverkusen have all sent scouts to watch the youngster play over the past few weeks.

Given that the player is capable of playing on the right side, in the center of the defense, and even on the wing, it is only logical to focus all of these eyes on him.

In addition to this, he is one of the candidates for the Golden Boy award in 2023, competing against the likes of Jude Bellingham, Florian Wirtz, Alejandro Balde, and a number of other notable names.

Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are still interested.

It is important to keep in mind that Girona, who is one of the clubs under City Football Group, would most likely give priority to Manchester City in the event that Arnau were to leave the club in the summer of 2019, despite the fact that Barcelona and Real Madrid are still interested in signing Arnau.

The Spaniard is a young defender who is quick, versatile, and athletic and matches the description of the type of player that Pep Guardiola may be looking for. He is comparable to Kyle Walker, but the Spaniard adds more attacking depth to the team.

Arnau, who now competes in La Liga, has a release clause of €20 million attached to his name. This clause has the potential to be activated by a top team in the upcoming months.