Why Barcelona Let Their Star Defender Go for Free?

Iñigo Martínez has signed for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr as a free agent after leaving Barcelona. Both clubs have confirmed the transfer.

The Spanish centre-back still had one year left on his contract with Barcelona. However, the club allowed him to move as a free agent.

It is reported that Martínez had a gentleman’s agreement with the club — if he received a good offer from a foreign club (outside Spain), Barcelona would allow him to leave for free during the 2025 transfer window.

He has signed a one-year contract with Al Nassr, with an option to extend for another year.

The 34-year-old joined Barcelona from Athletic Club in the summer of 2023 and played 71 matches for the Catalan side.

Under coach Hansi Flick, Martínez was a regular starter — which is why his departure has surprised many supporters. Last season, he played 46 matches in all competitions for Barcelona, contributing significantly to the club’s domestic treble win — La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Supercopa.