10 Aug 2025, 00:29
Inigo Martinez signed a contract with Al-Nassr after leaving Barcelona
- Inigo Martinez signed a one-year contract with Al-Nassr.
- He left Barcelona after 71 matches over two seasons.
- Al-Nassr plans to utilize his experience in the team.
Inigo Martinez signed a contract with Al-Nassr as a free agent after terminating his contract with Barcelona by mutual agreement.
The 34-year-old Spanish defender, who spent two seasons at Barcelona, signed a deal for one year with an option to extend for another. He leaves the club having played 71 matches since his transfer from Athletic Bilbao in the summer of 2023.
Martinez, who became an important figure last season, helped Barcelona win the championship, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España, playing 46 matches across all competitions.
His departure is a surprise for fans, as he regularly featured on the pitch under coach Xavi Flika.
Al-Nassr turned to Martinez as Aymeric Laporte is leading negotiations for a return to Athletic Bilbao. Although Martinez's departure does not bring immediate financial relief for Barcelona, it allows them to save €12 million ($13.9m) for the registration of new players.
At this moment, Barcelona has not fulfilled the 1-1 rule, which allows them to register 100% of the received funds from player registrations, but they can register 60% of Martinez's salary for the registration of new footballers.
Martinez joins Al-Nassr, which under the leadership of coach Jorge Jesus finished third in the Saudi Pro League last season.
Tags: Sport/Football