Bayer Leverkusen coach Carles Martínez has explained his decision to start Janis Blaswich instead of Mark Flekken in Thursday's 2-0 Europa League victory over OFI Crete.
Despite Flekken's impressive recent performances, Martínez believes every member of his squad deserves to feel involved, particularly during a demanding period of the season.
Speaking to BILD, the Spaniard emphasised that his decision was not a reflection of Flekken's form but rather an opportunity to reward Blaswich for his commitment.
Martínez Wants Every Player To Feel Important
"From the very first day, I said that I wanted as many players as possible to feel involved in this team... It's difficult because not everyone can play all the time. When an opportunity comes, you have to take it."- Martínez told BILD.
For Martínez, keeping the entire squad motivated is an important part of building a successful team.
The coach believes giving opportunities to players who have been waiting patiently can strengthen the atmosphere within the dressing room.
"That also boosts the energy within the team,"- He explained.
This approach has become particularly important as Leverkusen continues their impressive run of results. Martínez knows that maintaining momentum requires more than relying on the same eleven players every week. By rewarding those who train consistently and remain patient, he is encouraging healthy competition within the squad.
It also sends a message to players currently struggling for minutes that their efforts are being recognised, even when they are not regularly involved on matchdays.
Blaswich Earned His Opportunity
Martínez made it clear that Flekken remains in excellent form and retains his confidence.
"I'm very happy with Mark. He's going through a very good period right now."- The coach said.
However, he was equally eager to recognise Blaswich's contribution behind the scenes.
"But Janis is here every day, and he's very important to us. I felt it was a good day to give Janis the chance to play because he deserved it."- Carles Martinez.
The decision paid off as Leverkusen secured another clean sheet in Greece, maintaining their perfect defensive record in the Europa League after three matches.
Blaswich's appearance also demonstrated that Martínez is prepared to reward professionalism and commitment, even when his first-choice goalkeeper is performing well.
Carles Martínez Silences Early Doubts As Leverkusen Extend Impressive Unbeaten RunResilient victories and record-breaking goals from Patrik Schick have transformed a shaky start into a dominant seven-match streak, propelling the Spaniard’s rejuvenated squad back into Bundesliga contention.Squad Management Becomes Crucial For Leverkusen
Leverkusen have now won six consecutive matches across all competitions, with Martínez successfully balancing results and squad rotation.
Against OFI Crete, Jonas Hofmann also made the most of his opportunity, scoring twice after returning to the European squad following Martin Terrier's injury.
The performances of Hofmann and Blaswich underline the importance of maintaining competition throughout the squad.
The goalkeeper situation is especially interesting because Flekken has given Martínez little reason to consider a permanent change. Instead, the decision against OFI appears to have been about managing the squad rather than questioning the established hierarchy.
With Bundesliga and Europa League fixtures arriving regularly, Martínez will need contributions from more than just his established starters.
His message is clear: playing time must be earned, but every player who works hard will have an opportunity to contribute.
From here the stage only gets bigger.