Inigo Martinez talks Flick, Lamine, Spainish NT, Cristiano Ronaldo – ‘I didn’t dare to tell him I was leaving’ | OneFootball

Former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has opened up about his departure from the Catalan club and his new chapter with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

In an honest interview with COPE, the Spanish centre-back discussed his relationship with Hansi Flick, his admiration for young talent Lamine Yamal, and his continued commitment to the Spanish national team.

Martinez admitted that leaving Barcelona was not an easy decision. The veteran defender revealed how difficult it was to part ways with Hansi Flick, a coach he holds in high regard.

“I didn’t even dare to tell him I was leaving. I caught him on the plane, I think. For him, I was a key piece, and when I leave, the puzzle breaks a little,” Martinez confessed.

He added, “I have a lot of affection for him, and it’s mutual. I still have a relationship with him. He was the first one to take a chance on me when I arrived.”

Praise for Lamine Yamal

The 34-year-old also spoke warmly about his connection with Barcelona’s teenage star Lamine Yamal.

“I had a special relationship with Lamine. He saw me as a father figure, as a role model in the locker room,” he said.

Inigo Martinez praised Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)

Martinez went on to praise the youngster’s maturity, stating, “Lamine isn’t aware of the burden he carries, because he practically has to carry Barça on his shoulders.

“Let’s hope he’s not aware of that yet, because the day he realises it, I think it will weigh heavily on him. He has a good head on his shoulders and is quite controlled.”

Reflecting on national team commitment

When discussing the Spanish national team, Martinez dismissed rumours suggesting he was reluctant to play for Spain.

“If I hadn’t wanted to go, I would have been the first to say so. Everything that has been circulated is rumours,” he clarified.

However, he admitted that a return might not be realistic at his age: “It wouldn’t be a good idea for a 35-year-old to be there. But if there are injuries, I would be the first to step in. Who wouldn’t want to play in a World Cup or a European Championship?“

Lastly, Martinez also shared his first impressions of Cristiano Ronaldo since joining Al Nassr.

“His welcome surprised me. Often appearances are deceiving. He is approachable, competitive and lives football to the fullest,” he concluded.