FC Barcelona has confirmed that veteran center-back Inigo Martínez is leaving the club to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.
The departure follows a mutual agreement to terminate his contract early. Despite being under contract until June 2026, Martínez activated a clause allowing him to leave freely if a suitable offer came from abroad. As a result, Barcelona will benefit from freeing up approximately €12–14 million in salary cap space, helping the club comply with financial constraints and register new signings.
Having joined Barcelona in 2023, Martínez quickly emerged as a defensive leader under coach Hansi Flick. His presence was hailed as both influential on the pitch and in the dressing room. His partnership with Pau Cubarsí was regarded as a key cornerstone in Barcelona’s defense during their successful La Liga campaign.
In a heartfelt farewell, Martínez expressed gratitude to the club and fans, describing his two-year stint as “wonderful years” and insisting that Barcelona will always remain part of him. His young teammate Lamine Yamal also posted a moving tribute, calling him “my captain.”
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick condemned the timing of the exit as a “very tough blow” given the season’s proximity. Nevertheless, the club will not be signing a direct replacement and plans to rely on existing options—including Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, Eric García, and Jules Koundé—to fill the gaps.
Martínez is expected to sign with Al-Nassr until June 2026, with an option for an additional year. His move also fits Saudi Arabia’s growing ambition of attracting high-profile talent like Cristiano Ronaldo, with whom Martínez will now share the dressing room.
Martínez’s move marks the end of a significant chapter at Camp Nou—his leadership and defensive stability will be sorely missed. Meanwhile, Barcelona eyes financial relief and strategic youth integration as they navigate the new season.
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