Iñigo Martínez Set For Surprise Barcelona Exit, Al Nassr Swoop Imminent

Iñigo Martínez is set to leave Barcelona. He is close to joining Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Iñigo Martínez will make a free transfer to Al Nassr from Barcelona. Al Nassr triggered a clause in his deal that allows him to depart for no cost if an offer comes from overseas.

The 34-year-old has trained with the team for the final time and is set to join Cristiano Ronaldo and co. Barcelona are expected to terminate his contract to allow him to leave and join Al Nassr.

HOW BIG IS THE LOSS FOR BARCELONA?

Iñigo Martínez was a key player for the Spanish champions last season. He made 46 appearances across all competitions, starting 28 La Liga matches and 11 of the Blues’ 13 Champions League ties. His partnership with Pau Cubarsí in defense helped the Catalan outfit secure a domestic treble, as reported. Martínez played all 120 minutes of the Copa del Rey final too.

Despite his injury issues, Martínez was regularly involved with the first team last term and played a key role in Barcelona’s unbeaten streak from January to May.

WHAT NEXT?

Barcelona need to find an immediate replacement for Iñigo Martínez and bring him to Camp Nou with just nine days left before the start of the new La Liga season. The Catalan giants are still busy with several other signings like Marcus Rashford, Joan García, and Roony Bardghji, who are waiting to be registered.

Barcelona beat Real Madrid to the La Liga title last season and they will begin their title defense against Mallorca, who finished mid-table last season.

Meanwhile, Iñigo Martínez will bring his rich European experience to Al Nassr as the Saudi Pro League side look to dethrone Al Hilal and last year’s winners AL Ittihad to win their first league crown since 2022-23.