If Barcelona were to sell a center back this summer, very few would’ve projected Iñigo Martínez to be the man to go, and, unsurprisingly, consternation and concern are the prevailing moods among supporters after news of the 34-year-old’s Saudi venture broke
The veteran defender played a pivotal role for Hansi Flick’s dominant outfit last season, racking up 46 appearances in all competitions as Barcelona claimed three domestic trophies.
An exit may have been rationalized by a transfer fee the financially hamstrung La Liga champions couldn’t refuse, but Al Nassr have acquired Martínez on a free. Instead, Barça opted to honor the agreement they established with the player after he signed a contract extension in March. If a big offer arrived from the Middle East, Martínez would be allowed to leave.
The Spaniard has already turned out for his new club, and will end his two-year deal considerably richer.
For Barcelona, Martínez’s surprise exit doesn’t represent a disaster, but the left-footed defender has left a considerable void in Flick’s backline. Here’s how they could decide to replace the 34-year-old with the start of the 2025–26 season imminent.
