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Al Nassr’s Barcelona signing Iñigo Martinez sets clear title goals for Cristiano Ronaldo and teammates

Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al-Nassr FC and Inigo Martinez (R) of FC Barcelona.
© Abdullah Ahmed & David Ramos/Getty ImagesCristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al-Nassr FC and Inigo Martinez (R) of FC Barcelona.

Iñigo Martinez has been officially unveiled at Al Nassr after spending his entire career in Europe, now embarking on a new challenge in the Middle East. As one of the marquee additions of the 2025 transfer window, the former Barcelona defender has made his title ambitions clear to Cristiano Ronaldo and his new teammates.

Since Ronaldo’s arrival, Al Nassr have struggled to establish themselves as a dominant force in Saudi Arabia, failing to win an official trophy. With the Portuguese star committing to a new deal, the club has responded by launching a strong transfer window, headlined by the arrivals of Joao Felix and Martinez, with more signings expected.

Speaking to Al Nassr’s official channel, Martinez expressed his excitement about the move and his desire to make an impact: “It’s a pleasure to be here, full of excitement and eager to start working with my teammates. This experience truly excites me; it means everything to me.”

The Spanish center-back also set out the team’s ambitions for the 2025-26 campaign. “It’s a great team with excellent players and a big club that aims to win everything. I’ve come here to contribute, to enjoy, to learn and at the same time to push myself to the limit in order to win because I believe we have more than enough quality in the squad. This has to be our year,” he candidly stated.

After signing a contract through 2026, Martinez praised both the club and its environment. “When the opportunity came to join, I had a few conversations with teammates who spoke very highly of both Riyadh and the club, and the atmosphere in the locker room which is excellent,” he said. “That’s why I decided to make the step. As I said before, I’m here to win it all and give my all,” he added.

Martinez appeared in 46 games for Barcelona last season, scoring three goals and providing six assists while playing a key role in Hansi Flick’s squad. With Aymeric Laporte out of the picture, the 34-year-old is expected to anchor Al Nassr’s backline.

Al Nassr still working on Coman deal

As part of their squad overhaul, Al Nassr’s main remaining target is an attacking reinforcement, with Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman at the top of their list. Strengthening the right flank is a priority, and Ronaldo could soon have another star teammate.

According to Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, talks are at an advanced stage, with Bayern open to selling Coman. Al Nassr are reportedly prepared to pay a transfer fee of around €35 million, with a full agreement expected within the next 24 to 48 hours.

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