Over the weekend, Barcelona completed the departure of Inigo Martinez, who went on a free transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. The 34-year-old’s departure came as a shock to many, given that he was expected to be a regular starter for Hansi Flick’s team during the upcoming 2025-26 season.
It had been reported that Martinez had a clause in his contract that allowed him to leave Barcelona for free if he sought a new opportunity, and while that may be the case, club president Joan Laporta has hinted that the veteran was encouraged to move to Saudi Arabia, as he told TV3.
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“Deco already said that we had five centre-backs and that one should go. I think Inigo would love to stay here for one more season, but this train only passes once. I think he made a good decision, a decision on a family level. He came for free, and we have already talked before that if such an opportunity arises, we would let him go.”
Martinez’s departure helps Barcelona with the registration problem
While losing Martinez is a huge blow to Barcelona, it’s good news to get his salary done in their bid to register more players before the start of the new La Liga season this weekend – although it may not be enough to ensure that players like Joan Garcia, Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji could play against Mallorca. Despite this, Laporta is safe.
“We are working to ensure that everyone is registered. With Marc’s decision, we have options – according to what the medical report says. This week, things will happen.”
It remains to be seen if Barcelona can find a solution before the trip to Son Moix this weekend. Garcia should be registered, but it could be difficult for Flick to trust Rashford and co.
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