Unexpected move in Barça's transfer market. Íñigo Martínez has put an end to his time as a blaugrana footballer to join Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he will share a locker room with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Basque center-back, who arrived two seasons ago from Athletic Club, has accepted an economically irresistible offer that gives him a new challenge in an emerging league (emerging league).
His departure has surprised the board and the coaching staff, who counted on him as an important piece in the defensive rotation. Íñigo, with his experience and solidity, brought leadership and order to the back line. However, the offer from the Saudi club, combined with the personal terms for the player, has made the deal close quickly.
Only four center-backs on the squad
With Íñigo's departure, Barça faces the season with only four natural center-backs: Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, and Andreas Christensen.
Although all of them offer guarantees, the absence of a fifth center-back limits Flick's options when planning rest periods or covering possible injuries. The situation forces everyone to take extra care of their physical condition and to consider whether it will be necessary to turn to versatile players to reinforce the defense.
Araujo's future hanging in the air
According to El Nacional, attention shouldn't focus only on Íñigo Martínez's departure. The club is keeping an eye on what might happen with Ronald Araujo in the final days of the transfer window. The Uruguayan is one of the most sought-after defenders on the continent, and it can't be ruled out that offers from Premier League clubs or other major European leagues may arrive.
Araujo, who is one of the captains and undisputed leaders of the team, has Flick's and the fans' full support. However, his market value and the interest he generates mean that his name is always present on the agendas of the top clubs. Barça knows that any move of this magnitude could drastically change the sporting plans.
Barça doesn't want to sell, but fears offers
The club's position is that Araujo isn't for sale. With Íñigo Martínez's departure, losing the Uruguayan would leave the defense in a very delicate situation and with no room to maneuver in the market. Flick considers Araujo indispensable because of his speed and ability to prevail in physical duels.
Nevertheless, the board is also aware that a massive offer could put their solve to the test. In times of economic difficulties, a proposal that exceeds the usual limits could force the club to reconsider its position. For now, the priority is to keep the core of the team, but Barça knows that until the transfer window closes, any scenario is possible.