Inigo Martinez has joined Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr after activating a clause in his contract that allowed him to leave Barcelona if approached by a Saudi Arabian club.

Inigo Martinez celebrates victory in the 2024-2025 Spanish Super Cup. Photo: EFE

Although Barca received no transfer fee, the move frees up 19 million USD in salary, allowing the reigning La Liga champions to register a replacement center-back and other players. The transfer also significantly benefits Martinez, potentially multiplying his after-tax salary.

Martinez arrived at Barca on a free transfer from Bilbao in the summer of 2023. The 34-year-old became a cornerstone of the defense over two seasons, making 71 appearances, scoring three goals, and winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. He was also named to the La Liga team of the season last year.

Martinez's departure creates a significant gap in Barca's defensive depth. Last season, he and Pau Cubarsi were the first-choice center-back pairing. Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen have proven less reliable, often sidelined by injuries. It remains unclear whether Barca will acquire a replacement or promote from their youth academy.

Barca will play Como in the Joan Gamper Trophy on 10/8. Their La Liga title defense begins on 16/8 with an away match against Mallorca.

Martinez is Al Nassr's second European signing this summer. The club previously acquired forward Joao Felix from Chelsea for 47 million USD.

Thanh Quy (according to MD)