The former Newell’s Old Boys boss was appointed as Tito Vilanova’s successor today, signing a two-year contract with the La Liga champions.
Martino won the Clausura title in his native Argentina with Newell’s last season and received a glowing endorsement from Lionel Messi prior to his appointment at the Camp Nou.
The 50-year-old has never managed outside South America, but admitted he was looking forward to the challenge of leading one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
“Barcelona’s call surprised me, I didn’t expect it, I was planning to start a sabbatical,” he said. “I’m grateful to Barcelona for believing in me.
“We want to add something to the team as a whole and to the players individually. Every coach hopes of making this step. Now we will try to adapt quickly and to live up to the expectations.
“Barcelona have a clear way of playing for years. We will have to adapt to that and make that style our own.”
Messi, a Newell’s fan, gave his support to Martino on Monday and the new manager is relishing working with the world’s best player, adding that he is not sure when he will first take charge of his new side.
“I’m sure the Messi family gave a positive advice, but I don’t know to what extent that influenced the decision to sign me,” he added. “Coaching Barca means coaching the world’s best. While working with Leo every day, we’ll find the way to help him to stay the best.
“I don’t yet know when I will be in charge of my first game. We will discuss that later with the club.”
Stephen cluxton …should be the goalkeeper no goals conceded ..every team plan for his kicks outs ..captained a six in a row team and won his 8 all Ireland at 39 years of age …
@Exiled Dub: how many saves did he make.
I’m fairness, he barely kicked a ball all year.
David Clarke made many point blank saves yet let in some goals. Galligan was very good, but I don’t think it was enough to be an All star.
@Peter Roche: galligan made crucial saves at important times for cavan this year. He also kicked a monster score to win the game against Monaghan. Well deserving of his place.
I understand that Cluxton never conceded but jesus christ he never had to make a save because of the phenomenal defence he had in front of him. Hollywood Galligan won games for Cavan and made massive saves at very important times in the Ulster Final. I’m not sorry Cluxton didn’t get the nod as he doesn’t deserve it.
Glad to see Brady in there he was classy player in Ulster championship.
Paddy Durcan wonderful player .. but didn’t nothing in the final because of injury …
@Exiled Dub: true but on that logic there should be no Cavan or Tipp players
@Desheen: just think myself and I know it’s not in the criteria ..if you don’t finish your last match or get a red card should not get an all star ..the tipp lads are getting there’s for the match’s they played and finished ..just saying
@Exiled Dub: sure if we just have 15 dubs maybe then you’d be happy
@Mel Robets: I’m only here for Mels tears
@Mel Robets: no Tyrone players, no?
Oh wait almost forgot they knocked out first round
@Mel Robets: not a bad idea
@Mel Robets: Mel you don’t know me …so don’t jump in with an answer I might be from Dublin but I love all GAA it’s a debate not about scoring points off fellow gaels
Delighted to see Ciaran Brady get in the team. He was brilliant for cavan all year and probably their best player against Dublin. He barely got a mention in other publications TOTY.
How can Mayo have two players in the fullback line. They conceded a total of five goals in the semi final and the final. Now I know they’re terrific footballers but any rationale would say they’re not effective in that position.
@Pearse Fitzgerald: Cluxton didn’t concede a goal, no All Star.
These two lads allowed 5 in their 2 biggest games of the year.
Give them an All Star apiece.
Great logic.
No Jonny Cooper ??
Paddy Durcan didn’t play at corner back this season and has never played corner back for Mayo so why pick him there?
Seems strange to only have 3 Mayo players after making final and playing a decent final but looks about right in fairness.
@Desheen: probably the only three that brought their nappies with them
@my name: Good one knob head
@Alright Alright Alright: true story though my little buddy. Some mucky pants in that Mayo dressing room on an All Ireland final day.
@my name: the eternally confused Dub. Yesterday Dublin were a great team but today they win because Mayo **** themselves??? Make up your mind.
@Desheen: I’m quoting someone else so I can’t take credit for it my friend