Flick-favourite former Barcelona star will not return in January despite rumours | OneFootball

Inigo Martinez was one of Hansi Flick’s most trusted lieutenants during FC Barcelona’s successful 2024/25 campaign.

As such, the veteran Spaniard’s sudden departure to Al Nassr came as a shock for the German tactician, who was unhappy about the club’s decision to let the defender go.

Barça have more than felt Inigo’s absence this season, given how important his tactical understanding of the manager’s system as well as his leadership were.

That, coupled with Ronald Araujo’s mental health issues, sparked rumours earlier today that Barça and Inigo might be exploring the possibility of a reunion in the January transfer window.

Not happening

However, SPORT has come forward to nip those rumours in the bud, claiming that there is no possibility of a hypothetical return of Inigo to Barcelona in the winter.

To begin with, Barça fully trust in the recovery of Araujo. The Uruguayan is experiencing a confidence issue after the mistake made against Chelsea, but the Barcelona staff is working to help him through the issue, even as he currently trains individually in the gym.

Some reports claimed that Martinez could leave Al Nassr on loan until the end of the season, but this is far from true. The player made a firm decision and has adapted well to his new club, while Barcelona respected this choice.

No return for Inigo. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Inigo’s time at Barcelona was successful, but it reached its conclusion. The defender won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup last season, and felt it was the right moment to take a new direction in the final stage of his career.

At Al Nassr, he shares a dressing room with players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix and is fully committed to the project, just as he had been during his two years at Barcelona.

So, there is no chance of a return to Catalonia in the winter.

Barcelona planning for the future

Meanwhile, Barcelona themselves are planning for the future and have identified targets to reinforce the centre-back position in the summer of 2026.

Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund, whose contract ends in 2027, has emerged as the leading candidate. A left-footed centre-back, the German international is seen as an ideal candidate to strengthen the backline ahead of next season.