Former Barcelona defender has no regrets about summer exit – ‘A well-made decision’ | OneFootball

Inigo Martinez’s departure was the one move of the summer was left Barcelona devastated and seriously exposed at centre-back and while the team does have resources to cope, the opening games have made it clear that there is a gaping void.

The player opted to leave Barcelona for an offer from Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, and while it may appear that the club pioneered the deal for financial reasons, the truth is that it was Martinez’s own decision to leave the club.

An irresistible financial offer on the table and a chance to continue playing with some of the world’s greatest names of the past in the process, needless to say, was too good a proposal for Martinez to reject, and it was enough to lure him away from Catalonia.

Martinez has no regrets

Speaking to the media in a recent interview, the former Barcelona defender discussed his decision to leave the club and join Al-Nassr and how he has been enjoying the change in scenery so far.

“A well-made decision,” he said, having no regrets about the move he accepted.

Martinez then went on to explain what he was enjoying about life in Saudi Arabia, the expectations he had and how they compared to the reality.

“I wanted to try other challenges, another city and another culture,” he said.

Inigo left Barcelona for Saudi Arabia this summer. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“It’s the first time I’ve left my comfort zone, and I really wanted to. I wanted another next step, compete in this league and live this beautiful experience,” he added.

When asked about his dream to take Al-Nassr back to regular silverware alongside some of the best players in the world, the centre-back said,

“There is still a lot ahead, but very important steps are being taken and being part of this is beautiful and exciting because I want to continue competing at the highest level and win all possible titles.”

One of the players he happens to share the dressing room with is Cristiano Ronaldo, a player he knows ever so well from his time in La Liga.

“It motivates me to be able to fight alongside Cristiano to win titles,” he said.

“I had the opportunity to play against him many games, and it was difficult to stop him, but having him by my side and fighting with him to win titles is something that motivates me, it excites me,” he added.

Concluding he said: “I’m happy to be in this great club with the best players in the world.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo