Inigo Martinez Leaves Barcelona To Join Cristiano Ronaldo At Al-Nassr

Inigo Martinez Set to Join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr After Shock Barcelona Exit

Barcelona’s transfer window has just taken another dramatic twist. Veteran center-back Inigo Martinez is set to leave the Camp Nou and join Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr, a move that will see him line up alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix, and Sadio Mané in Riyadh.

From Barca Anchor to Saudi Switch

Martinez, who became a key figure in Hansi Flick’s defensive setup last season, will terminate his contract with Barcelona immediately. Al-Nassr have already booked his medical tests for later this week, and he’s expected to sign a one-year deal with an option to extend until June 2027.

For Flick, the departure is more than just another name leaving the squad sheet. Martinez’s composure, aerial dominance, and ability to build from the back were integral to Barcelona’s improved defensive shape last campaign.

Inigo Martinez Leaves Barcelona To Join Cristiano Ronaldo At Al-Nassr — Inigo Martinez Leaves Barcelona, Credits- Twitter

Whether it was snuffing out counterattacks or guiding young Pau Cubarsi through high-pressure matches, the veteran was the perfect blend of leader and enforcer.

Defensive Depth Now a Real Problem

His exit, combined with Andreas Christensen’s move earlier in the summer, leaves Ronald Araujo as the only established first-choice center-back to partner Cubarsi. While Araujo’s physical presence and leadership are undeniable, the lack of depth at center-back could quickly become a nightmare for Flick, especially with Barca competing on multiple fronts this season.

Why Al-Nassr Moved Fast

From Al-Nassr’s perspective, Martinez is a perfect fit. The Saudi side has been building a squad stacked with European pedigree, and the addition of an experienced La Liga defender adds much-needed stability at the back. His ability to read the game and organize a backline will be crucial as the saudi club chases both domestic and continental silverware.

Financial Breathing Space for Barcelona

Off the pitch, Martinez’s departure provides Barcelona with some relief under Financial Fair Play rules. Shedding his wages opens up room for potential late-window signings, something Joan Laporta and Deco will be keen to explore before the market shuts.

Whether Barca can replace Martinez’s influence is another story entirely. For now, the club faces a season where their defensive backbone looks alarmingly thin and for Al-Nassr fans, it’s another reason to believe their star-studded lineup can dominate in 2025.