Spanish defender Inigo Martínez has completed a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr after leaving La Liga champions Barcelona, the club confirmed on Sunday.
The 34-year-old centre-back joins the Riyadh-based outfit as a free agent, ending his one-year stay at Camp Nou. Martínez made 71 appearances in all competitions for the Blaugrana after signing from Athletic Bilbao in 2023, playing a key role in the team’s domestic success.
During his time in Catalonia, Martínez helped Barcelona secure the two La Liga titles, as well as lifting the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa del Rey in the previous campaign.
“Inigo Martínez joins Al Nassr as a free agent,” the Saudi Arabian club announced on social media, welcoming the experienced defender into a squad already boasting global stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, Marcelo Brozović and Joao Felix.
Martínez began his professional career with Real Sociedad, coming through their academy before making more than 200 appearances over seven seasons. He later spent six years at Athletic Bilbao, where he became one of La Liga’s most consistent defenders.
On the international stage, he has earned 21 caps for Spain between 2013 and 2023, featuring in both UEFA Nations League and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
His departure is expected to ease the financial strain on Barcelona’s wage bill, with the club still navigating tight spending limits imposed by La Liga.
Al Nassr finished third in the Saudi Pro League last season, with Ronaldo finishing as the competition’s top scorer on 25 goals.
Martínez’s arrival is seen as part of the club’s push to strengthen their defence as they aim to challenge for the league title and the AFC Champions League in the coming campaign.