Former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez may now be plying his trade in Saudi Arabia, but his connection with Barça remains as strong as ever. The centre-back, who moved to Al Nassr last summer, rec...
Former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez may now be plying his trade in Saudi Arabia, but his connection with Barça remains as strong as ever.
The centre-back, who moved to Al Nassr last summer, recently spoke openly about the idea of a potential return to Barcelona and how closely he continues to follow his former club’s progress.
When asked by journalist Gerard Romero about the possibility of returning to Barcelona in January, Martinez was quick to respond with realism and humour.
He made it clear that a comeback is not on the cards, at least for now, due to Barcelona’s financial situation.
“It’s impossible for Laporta to spend that much money,” he said by laughing off the suggestion.
Despite closing the door on a return, Martinez did not hide the emotional bond he still feels with the club.
“Honestly, I’m very happy here. Of course, I miss Barcelona; it was my best year as a professional, and I learned what it was like to experience the Cule spirit.
“Obviously, I have to watch you from afar. I won’t be able to be there because we’re playing the next day.”
On Gerard Martin
Even from a distance, Martinez keeps a close eye on Barça’s present and future.
One player who has particularly caught his attention is Gerard Martin, whose emergence this season has been one of the positives for the club.
Inigo Martinez closed the doors on Barcelona return. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
Speaking warmly about the young defender’s rise, Martinez praised both his attitude and performances.
“I’m really happy for Gerard Martin. He has seized his moment and is having a great season. He likes to learn and doesn’t complain.
“I’m glad to see young centre-backs coming up through the ranks and I hope he continues to do well.”
The ongoing Super Cup
As a self-confessed Barça fan, Martinez also analysed the recent Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club, another former team of his.
“I was surprised because Athletic’s identity is to press hard for 90 minutes.
“They held out for the first 15 or 20 minutes, but then they collapsed and didn’t know how to react. Barça fell short at the beginning, but they raised the white flag.”
Looking ahead to the Super Cup final against Real Madrid, Martinez underlined the importance of the fixture for the rest of the season.
“It’s usually vital for the second half of the season. It’s a tough blow for those who lose. Last year, it gave us a big boost.
“I’ve seen Madrid’s last 20 minutes, and they’re not at their best. Barça are going into it with much more confidence. Let’s hope we enjoy it,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
Category: General Sports
