Iñigo Martínez Speaks About Leaving Barcelona and His Move to Al Nassr

Barcelona defender Iñigo Martínez has finally broken his silence on his surprise transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, opening up about the factors that influenced his decision to leave the Catalan giants after just one season.

The 33-year-old centre-back joined Barcelona in the summer of 2023 from Athletic Bilbao on a free transfer, expected to bring valuable experience and depth to the backline. While he enjoyed his time in Spain, Martínez admits the opportunity presented by Al Nassr was one he simply could not turn down.

“It’s not that I was earning low at Barcelona,” Martínez explained. “My family and I were comfortable in the city, and I had a significantly high wage. But sometimes in football, certain opportunities come along that make you stop and think very seriously.”

The Spanish international revealed that the financial offer from Al Nassr was unlike anything he had received in his career. “These trains pass by rarely,” he continued. “When they arrive, it’s hard to say no. The project they presented to me was ambitious, and it made me feel valued both as a player and as a person.”

Martínez also pointed out that his decision was not solely about money, but about embracing a new challenge at a different stage of his career. At Al Nassr, he will link up with several high-profile stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, in a league that has been making headlines for attracting world-class talent.

Leaving Barcelona was not an easy choice. Martínez spoke warmly about his time at the club, praising his teammates and the coaching staff for their professionalism. “I had a great relationship with the squad,” he said. “The club treated me well, and the fans were always supportive. I will always be grateful for the time I spent there.”

His move also reflects the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League in the global football market. In recent seasons, Saudi clubs have been aggressively pursuing top players from Europe, offering lucrative contracts that have made even the most established professionals reconsider their plans.

For Barcelona, Martínez’s departure opens up a space in the squad and reduces the wage bill, potentially giving head coach Hansi Flick more flexibility in the transfer market. However, it also means losing an experienced defender who could step in during crucial moments of the season.

Martínez insists that his decision was made with complete clarity and without regrets. “At this point in my career, I have to think about my family’s future as well as my own ambitions,” he said. “I’m excited for what lies ahead and determined to give my all for Al Nassr.”

The former Barcelona man is expected to make his debut in Saudi Arabia within weeks, with fans eager to see how he adapts to a new league and environment. For Martínez, the next chapter promises to be as challenging as it is rewarding — a step he believes was worth taking