Nacho Martín returns after six months sidelined by injury

Nacho Martín is back in action with Sporting de Gijón following six months out due to injury. The midfielder featured for the opening 45 minutes of a friendly match wearing the captain's armband, making his return after undergoing surgery on his left heel.

The player from Noreña discussed the challenging process in statements to Sport: «Last season I had very good moments, but also very difficult ones. I suffered greatly every week with constant pain. There were months when I was practically limping, and mentally that took its toll». Despite this, he expressed his satisfaction at training at full intensity and feeling like a footballer again.

Martín explained that he is still catching up to his teammates in preseason preparation, but is working hard to regain match rhythm as soon as possible. Regarding the arrival of Guillamón, he acknowledged the fierce competition in the double pivot: «Since I joined the first team, there has always been strong competition, and this year is no different. Hugo comes from playing in the top division, so I need to learn and get up to speed to compete with them».