Al-Nassr Secures Martinez After His Departure from Barcelona
Inigo Martínez Joins Al-Nassr Ahead of Saudi Super Cup Semi-Final
Defender Inigo Martínez has joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr on a free transfer from Barcelona, signing a one-year contract with an option for an additional year. The move comes as Al-Nassr prepares to face Al-Ittihad in the semi-final of the Saudi Super Cup on 19 August.
Martínez, a veteran center-back known for his defensive reliability, spent two years at Barcelona, making 71 appearances in all competitions and contributing to winning the La Liga title and Copa del Rey in the 2024-25 season. Before Barcelona, Martínez played for Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad, accumulating extensive experience in La Liga.
Al-Nassr's acquisition of Martínez is a strategic move aimed at strengthening the squad with experienced international players. The club has also signed Portuguese forward Joao Felix from Chelsea and extended Cristiano Ronaldo's contract, further bolstering their star-studded lineup.
Martínez's contract with Al-Nassr is valid until 2026, while Ronaldo's contract is now valid until 2025. Manager Jorge Jesus will be hoping that the addition of Martínez will help Al-Nassr challenge for honours in the upcoming season.
Summary of Key Career Details at Al-Nassr:
- Transfer: Joined on free transfer from Barcelona, August 2025
- Contract: 1-year contract + option for an additional year
- Previous clubs: Barcelona (2023–2025), Athletic Bilbao, Real Sociedad
- Performance at Barça: 71 appearances, La Liga & Copa del Rey winner
- Role at Al-Nassr: Expected veteran center-back, joining Ronaldo’s side
- Transfer Rationale: Allowed by Barcelona to reduce wage bill, free agent status
Martínez's move to Al-Nassr reflects his career longevity and the club's ambition to compete at the highest level. As the Saudi Super Cup semi-final approaches, Martínez will be eager to make his mark in his new surroundings.
In the upcoming Saudi Super Cup semi-final, Inigo Martínez, the veteran center-back known for his reliability in European leagues such as Laliga and football, will join Al-Nassr, hoping to make a significant impact. Prior to signing a one-year contract with an option for another year at Al-Nassr, Martínez contributed to Barcelona's La Liga and Copa del Rey wins in the 2024-25 season, having previously played for Laliga teams like Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad.
