How Hansi Flick learnt about veteran star’s decision to leave Barcelona – The full story | OneFootball

A detailed report from Spanish outlet ARA has revealed how Inigo Martinez quietly orchestrated his transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, keeping it under wraps until the final stages.

The centre-back, who joined Barcelona from Athletic Club, waited until he returned from the club’s pre-season Asia tour to inform anyone at the club about the offer.

While Barça were still in Japan, Martinez received the first call from Al Nassr. From that moment until the deal was completed, he negotiated in total silence, with trusted agent Jose Tudela handling the process.

Even during long nights on the tour, while his teammates slept, the defender was in discussions with the Saudi club.

No one in the squad had any idea until the flight back to Barcelona, when the news broke mid-air. The first to hear it were teammate Dani Olmo and head coach Hansi Flick.

Flick accepted the decision

Inigo Martinez completed his Al Nassr switch in complete silence. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, it is said that manager Hansi Flick was surprised but accepted Martinez’s decision, understanding that the player had earned the right to choose his own future.

The manager knew losing the defender would make it harder to maintain the same defensive style as last season, but he did not attempt to change his mind.

Once back in Barcelona, Martinez met with sporting director Deco at the Joan Gamper Sports City. The discussion lasted under 10 minutes and finalised his departure without any transfer fee.

For Joan Laporta and Deco, the move had a practical upside, which is easing the club’s wage bill at a time when financial flexibility is crucial.

While Flick would have preferred to keep the experienced centre-back, he accepted that Martinez’s mind was made up.

In the end, the deal gave the player a lucrative new chapter in Saudi Arabia, while offering Barcelona some financial breathing room.