Barca speaks out about Inigo Martinez shock

Last season's Barca defender Inigo Martinez has accepted an offer to move to the Saudi Pro League to play alongside Ronaldo. This information was confirmed by reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano on the X platform.

The departure of the 34-year-old centre-back has shocked Barca fans. That's because Martinez was an indispensable pillar for coach Hansi Flick last season. Specifically, he played 46 times (2024-2025 season) and was one of the important factors in the Blaugrana's treble journey.

Martinez's reason for leaving is said to be based on the agreement with Barca last season. At that time, the Spaniard received an attractive offer from a Saudi Arabian team. But at that time he refused because he was persuaded by coach Hansi Flick.

When signing a contract extension, the 34-year-old centre-back included a clause that said he would be free to leave if there was an offer from Saudi Arabia.

It seemed that the transfer of this central defender to Al Nassr would cause difficulties for the German strategist's new season plan.

Recently, Deco (Barca's sporting director) shared with La Vanguardia : "We have five central defenders. One has to leave because there are too many players and that person is Inigo Martinez."

According to Mundo Deportivo , Barca currently have four centre-backs in their squad, including: Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia, not to mention Kounde. Furthermore, coach Hansi Flick is testing Gerard Martin at left-sided centre-back during pre-season.

Inigo Martinez joined Al Nassr on a free transfer, meaning the Catalans will not receive any money back. However, Barca will save nearly 15 million euros to register new players.