The steel defender who left Cristiano Ronaldo, dreaming of Barcelona

Just halfway through his time at Al Nassr, Inigo Martinez wants to find a path back to Barcelona.

Inigo Martinez has made his goal clear: to return to FC Barcelona this winter. The 34-year-old player is reportedly pressuring Al Nassr to allow him to leave. Notably, Martinez only parted ways with Barcelona this past summer.

Martinez’s desire to return to Camp Nou is great news for Barcelona, especially for coach Hansi Flick. Given that the German manager has yet to find a replacement for the 34-year-old center-back, bringing him back is the best solution to fix the defensive issues currently.

Barcelona’s sports department is evaluating the possibility of bringing Martínez back without spending heavily in the market. Loaning the Spanish defender would immediately address the need for a left-sided center-back, while allowing Barcelona to allocate funds to other strategic positions.

Martinez’s own wish to return makes the deal easier to finalize if Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s club, agrees to loan him out. However, it won’t be simple since Martinez plays a key role in Al Nassr’s squad. He has appeared in 17 matches this season, scored once, and his contract runs until the end of 2025/26.

In August 2025, Martinez surprisingly activated a release clause with Barcelona to join Al Nassr. The Spanish defender openly admitted he chose to move due to the lucrative financial offer from Al Nassr.

Martinez’s sudden departure destabilized Barcelona’s defense. Last season, he was the leader in Hansi Flick’s high defensive line. His ability to read plays and make decisive interceptions is a quality Barcelona hasn’t found in anyone else.

Hansi Flick has tried pairing Pal Cubarsi with various center-backs, but none have matched the chemistry he had with Martinez. Their defenders tend to drop back when possession is lost, turning last season’s successful offside trap into a weakness this year.

With financial difficulties, Barcelona struggles to find a quality center-back like Martinez. Therefore, if the 34-year-old defender wants to return to Camp Nou, it is excellent news for Hansi Flick during this crucial phase of the season.

However, this is unwelcome news for Al Nassr, the current leaders of the Saudi Pro League determined to win their first title. Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates are in top form, and there is no reason for them to let their key star leave.

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