Iñigo Martínez says goodbye to Barça before traveling to Saudi Arabia

Íñigo Martínez ends his time at FC Barcelona after two seasons, heading to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. His departure, agreed without a transfer, alleviates the club's finances but leaves a void in the defense.

Emotional Farewell at the Sports City

The morning at the Joan Gamper Sports City began with applause, hugs, and looks that said more than any speech. Íñigo Martínez said goodbye to his teammates and the coaching staff, thus closing a two-season stage at FC Barcelona. Joan Laporta, president of the club, was present to thank him for his commitment and wish him success in his new destination: Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia.

A Agreed Farewell without Transfer

Martínez's departure is not the result of a last-minute negotiation, but rather the fulfillment of an agreement signed in his last renewal in 2024. At that time, the player rejected a first Saudi offer, but left it in writing that, if in the future he received another that convinced him, Barça would allow him to leave for free.
That clause has now been activated, freeing the club from some 14 million euros in salary mass, a fundamental relief to comply with the financial 'fair play' and register new signings.

A Defensive Leader Who Leaves a Mark

In his time at Barcelona, Martínez played 46 games and won three titles, becoming a defensive reference. His experience, tactical reading and ability to advance lines made him an ideal partner for young promises like Pau Cubarsí. Now, his absence will force Hansi Flick to redesign the rear, relying on talents from La Masia such as Cubarsí and Eric García.

Challenge and Opportunity for the Culé Defense

The departure of an experienced center-back is, at the same time, a loss and an opportunity. Loss because a player with temper for big games leaves; opportunity because it opens space for a renewed defense, where youth must learn to lead. Barça has already tested combinations in preseason to replace the loss, betting on a mixture of young energy and residual experience in the squad.

Destination: Saudi Arabia

Íñigo Martínez will sign with Al Nassr until June 2026, with an option for one more season. There he will share a dressing room with stars of international renown, in a league that has become an increasingly recurrent destination for European players in search of new challenges... and succulent contracts.