Josep Martínez is ready to be called upon when needed
RB Leipzig can rely on backup goalkeeper Josep Martínez ǀ The young Spaniard has proved himself a capable deputy to Péter Gulácsi
The job of backup goalkeeper at Bundesliga level is not an easy one. You have to perform at your best in training every week, but come matchday you are just a spectator. Then when needed, you have to be ready to perform having been sitting on the bench for weeks or even months. We can count ourselves lucky that Josep Martínez is up to the task.
The potential that was seen in the young Spaniard by those at Leipzig was evident when the transfer was announced. In January 2020, RBL announced that they had secured the services of the then 21-year-old goalkeeper from UD Las Palmas for the following season.
Ideal conditions
Josep Martínez, who was at Barcelona in his academy days, signed with the club until 2024. “From the very beginning here in Leipzig, everything was disciplined and clearly planned,” Josep said today about his time with RBL so far. A part of their planning is to develop their young goalkeeper. “I have learnt a lot from Péter Gulácsi and Philipp Tschauner. They are two goalkeepers with a lot of experience,” said the 23-year-old. “Pete nearly always makes the right decision in difficult situations.” Frederik Gößling, Josep’s goalkeeping coach, has also played a part in his development, however: “Freddy provides superb training. That combined with the quality in the squad means that I’m always learning!”
I have learnt a lot from Péter Gulácsi. He nearly always makes the right decision in difficult situations.
Three appearances already this season
The ‘keeper is getting the time to develop at Cottaweg. In his first year he was gradually introduced to the first team, sat on the bench as backup for most games and made his Bundesliga debut on matchday 34. This season, Josep has already appeared three times in Leipzig colours, keeping clean sheets in the second round of the DFB-Pokal against SV Babelsberg (1-0) and in the crucial Champions League game against Club Brugge (5-0). He also replaced Péter Gulácsi in their 13th Bundesliga game of the season when the regular number one had Coronavirus. The 23-year-old played well against Bayer 04 Leverkusen despite the team eventually losing 3-1.
Ready when needed
It’s likely that Josep will have to return to the bench when Gulácsi returns, as is the fate of a second choice goalie. But Josep, who describes himself as “courageous and devoted”, has shown that he can be relied on when needed.
Assistant coach Achim Beierlorzer praised the ‘keeper after the win over Brugge, saying, “he was flawless in what was a high-pressure situation.” He predicted that, “he can have a great career.” If he carries on working patiently and consistently as he has been, then he can definitely achieve that.