Al Nassr have officially completed the signing of Spanish defender Iñigo Martínez from Barcelona on a free transfer, bringing one of La Liga’s most experienced center-backs to the Saudi Pro League.
The 34-year-old defender has terminated his contract with Barcelona and signed a deal with Al Nassr that runs until June 2026, with an option to extend for another year until 2027. The move comes as a surprise given its sudden nature and timing.
Shock Departure from Barcelona
Martínez’s exit from Barcelona comes after just two years at the Camp Nou, where he arrived as a free agent in 2023 following his contract expiry at Athletic Club. The timing of his departure has caught many by surprise, particularly after he played an important role under former manager Hansi Flick last season.
Barcelona have officially confirmed the defender’s departure, with the club announcing that Martínez has left ahead of the start of the new 2025-26 La Liga season. The Catalan giants will not receive a transfer fee but are making significant savings on their wage bill.
The defender’s sudden exit comes despite expectations that he would remain at Barcelona for the upcoming season. His decision to leave represents a major shift in the club’s defensive plans and opens up space for potential new signings.
Financial Relief for Barcelona
Martínez’s departure provides Barcelona with immediate financial relief by freeing up substantial room on their wage bill. This move helps the club address their ongoing financial constraints while enabling them to register new signings, including goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
The savings from Martínez’s departure will allow Barcelona greater flexibility in the transfer market during the remaining weeks of the summer window. His exit removes a significant salary burden that was constraining the club’s ability to complete other deals.
Barcelona’s willingness to allow Martínez to leave for free reflects their current financial priorities and the need to balance their books ahead of the new season. The club views this as a necessary sacrifice to achieve greater financial stability.
Al Nassr’s Strategic Acquisition
Al Nassr identified Martínez as a potential replacement for his compatriot Aymeric Laporte, who has been linked with a return to Athletic Club. The Spanish defender’s experience and leadership qualities made him an attractive target for the Saudi Arabian side.
The signing continues Al Nassr’s policy of attracting experienced European defenders to strengthen their backline. Martínez joins a squad that already features several high-profile international players, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
His arrival at Al Nassr provides the club with a proven center-back who has competed at the highest level throughout his career. The defender’s experience in La Liga and international football adds valuable knowledge to Al Nassr’s defensive structure.
Player’s Farewell Message
Martínez has sent a departing message to Barcelona ahead of his move to Saudi Arabia, expressing his gratitude for his time at the club. The defender acknowledged the opportunity he received at Barcelona while wishing the team success for the future.
His farewell indicates the amicable nature of his departure, despite the sudden timing of the transfer. Martínez’s professional approach to leaving Barcelona reflects his character and respect for the institution.
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The defender’s message to Barcelona fans shows his appreciation for the support he received during his two-year stint at the Camp Nou, even though his playing time was sometimes limited.
Contract Details and Future Plans
Martínez’s contract with Al Nassr runs until June 2026, with the option to extend for an additional year until 2027. This structure provides security for both player and club while allowing flexibility for future planning.
Martínez’s arrival at Al Nassr adds experience and leadership to their defensive line, providing competition and mentorship for younger players in the squad. His presence should elevate the overall defensive standards at the club.
For Barcelona, his departure creates space for other defensive options while reducing their wage burden. The club can now focus on integrating younger defenders or pursuing alternative targets in the transfer market.
