In a move that caught many fans off guard, Spanish centre-back Iñigo Martínez has completed a free transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr. The experienced 33-year-old joined FC Barcelona just a year ago, but after a short stint at Camp Nou, he’s now heading to the Middle East for a fresh start.
So, what led to this decision? Let’s break down the key reasons behind his exit, how much he’s set to earn at his new club, who’s expected to fill the gap at Barcelona, and just how important (or not) Martínez was to the Catalan side.
Why Did Iñigo Martínez Leave Barcelona?
Martínez’s time at Barcelona didn’t quite go as planned. Though he came in with solid experience and the potential to add depth to the defense, he struggled to nail down a regular spot in the starting XI. Recurring injuries and the rise of young stars like Pau Cubarsí and Ronald Araújo limited his chances on the field.
On top of that, Barcelona is still trying to get its finances under control. Reducing the wage bill is a top priority, and letting go of a high-salary, injury-prone player made financial sense. From Iñigo’s perspective, he wanted more playing time and a new challenge and the Saudi Pro League was the perfect opportunity.
How Much Will Iñigo Martínez Earn at Al-Nassr?
Let’s talk money. Iñigo is set to earn between €8–10 million per year, and yes it’s tax-free. That’s a big step up from his Barcelona contract. Besides the base salary, he’ll likely receive bonuses, image rights deals, and perks like luxury accommodation, which is standard for big-name players moving to Saudi clubs.
In short, it’s not just a career move it’s a massive financial upgrade.
Who Will Replace Iñigo Martínez at Barcelona?
With Iñigo gone, Barcelona is turning to its youth. Names like Pau Cubarsí and Mika Faye are seen as the future, and alongside established defenders like Araújo, Koundé, and Christensen, the team still looks solid at the back.
There’s also a possibility that new manager Hansi Flick might promote someone from La Masia or bring in a low-cost defender to ensure depth without breaking the bank. Barcelona’s current strategy is clear: develop young talent instead of splashing money on aging stars.
Was Iñigo Martínez Really That Important for Barça?
To be fair, Iñigo wasn’t a key figure for Barcelona. Yes, he brought experience and a calm presence during tough matches. His left-footed style added balance when needed. But with just a few appearances last season, he was more of a backup option than a mainstay.
Losing him won’t shake up the defense. In fact, it opens the door for younger, more reliable players and frees up the wage budget for more critical needs.
Final Thoughts:
Iñigo Martínez’s move to Al-Nassr is part of a bigger trend of European veterans heading to Saudi Arabia for one last big chapter. For him, it’s a chance to play regularly, earn big, and be part of a growing league. For Barcelona, it’s a sensible decision that aligns with their financial recovery and youth-first approach.
Both sides part ways with something to gain — and for Iñigo, this could be the exciting final stretch of a solid career.
