Iñigo Martínez, the experienced Spanish centre back, is about to embark on the new adventure of playing in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Nassr has set up the scheduled medical tests for this week and has a one-year contract with one option until June 2027, ready for Martínez. Martínez will join Cristiano Ronaldo in Riyadh after two good seasons at FC Barcelona.
Here at 96.com app, there is a full breakdown of who he is, why he is making this move, his time at Barça and what Al-Nassr can expect from him.
All You Need to Know About Iñigo Martínez
Iñigo Martínez is a 34-year-old centre back, born on May 17, 1991, in Ondarroa, Spain. He is currently known for being a strong leader, playing well in the air, and being good with his feet and playing out from the back. He came through the Real Sociedad academy and played with the first team in 2011. He made more than 230 appearances at the club before moving to Athletic Club in January 2018. He was seen as one of the more reliable defenders in La Liga.
He most recently moved to FC Barcelona in July 2023, on a free transfer, and added a lot of major silverware to his career, including La Liga, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup. For Spain, he has over twenty caps and played in the UEFA Nations League and European Championship qualifiers.
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Why did Iñigo Martínez join Al-Nassr?
The transfer to Al-Nassr involves two factors – the sporting and the financial. The potentially lucrative deal is consistent with the recent actions of the Saudi Arabian club, which has tried to sign many top European players. Al-Nassr viewed Martínez, probably as a means to replace Laporte, who will be returning to Athletic Club. Martínez will also see his wages substantially increased at close to €10 million net per season, which is almost double what he was earning at Barcelona.
The project at Al-Nassr, featuring worldwide stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as other players of significance like João Félix, has the sporting ambition and an opportunity to challenge for domestic and continental titles, and allows Martínez to earn a big final contract at the end of his playing career.
Why did he leave Barcelona?
Martínez’s departure was facilitated through a contract clause that would allow him to leave for free if he received a suitable offer from Saudi Arabia. Barcelona, always constrained by financial fair play, saw this as an opportunity to get almost free €12-14 million in wages, and at least €8.4 million of financial fair play room to register any new signings.
Head coach Hansi Flick said it was a “very hard blow” for the club, as it was very close to season commencement for the 2025-26 La Liga season, but the club decided to honour their word to the player. Martínez could not have asked for better timing, coinciding with the interest in the player from Al-Nassr.
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Iñigo Martínez’s stats, record, and performance at Barcelona
In all, Martínez has made 71 appearances for Barcelona, contributing to the team, not just as a defender, but also displaying leadership qualities in the changing room. During important matches, including the Copa del Rey final and important European nights, Martínez was cool under pressure, read the game and dominated the air, which were all half-decent attributes to possess in a centre-back.
What to expect at Al-Nassr
At Al-Nassr, Martínez is expected to lead the backline with experienced players, while working with younger players. His tactical awareness and ability to distribute the ball will be important against teams that high-press in the AFC Champions League. With goal scorers the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané and João Félix, Martínez will keep part of the game simple, making sure he provides a stable base defensively and starts attacking moves from the back. Martínez’s arrival also demonstrates Al-Nassr’s intent of strengthening their spine ahead of next season with hopes of not just their continued chase of the Saudi Pro League but also success in Asia.
Conclusion
Iñigo Martínez’s transfer from Al-Nassr to Barcelona is a mutually advantageous outcome. On one hand, Barcelona provides the financial relief necessary, while Martínez receives a prominent role within one of the fastest-growing leagues in Asia.
Al-Nassr fans obtain an experienced European player, a leader, and a proven winner. Martínez will have his medicals this week, so the move is very close to being finalised; this will be yet another statement signing amid the transition of football in Saudi Arabia. Fans can keep track of all updates, odds for matches, and expert analysis through the 96 online game as Martínez begins his journey in the Saudi Pro League.
