Barcelona were one of the most fearful attacking outfits last season as they won the domestic treble under the leadership of Hansi Flick.
Flick imposed his traditional ultra-aggressive attacking system at Camp Nou and the entire change in style was successful because Barcelona's backline were exceptional in maintaining the high line.
While it was always a collective effort in defense, Inigo Martinez played a major role last season amid injuries to many of Barcelona's first choice defenders.
The 34-year-old Spaniard made the entire system work with his exceptional game reading ability and positional sense. He was a leader at the back for the Catalans.
However, this summer, Inigo suddenly left Barcelona following Al Nassr's approach from Saudi Arabia and unfortunately considering Barcelona's financial constraints they failed to sign a replacement for the Spanish centre-back.
Recently, in an interview, Inigo shared his reasoning for making the Al Nassr switch, the 34-year-old defender told MARCA, "I was in pre-season training when the offer came in, and I realised that you have to stop and think about it.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
"You’re moving your whole family, leaving a place where you were going to continue being a starter, but you have to weigh everything up and, whether you like it or not, age is a factor."
What did Inigo Martinez say about playing under Barcelona coach Hansi Flick?
Inigo was dealing with several injury issues, and he was even considering retirement as he wasn't able to walk properly ahead of his move to Barcelona.
Even after his move in 2023, he struggled with his fair share of injuries but the switch to Camp Nou and getting the best doctors and facilities changed his career.
However, last season was his opportunity to prove himself as Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen were both out injured, and Inigo had to partner Pau Cubarsi at the heart of the Barcelona defense.
The veteran Spanish defender produced some exceptional performances whilst playing in Flick's high-line defensive system.
“Well, enjoying it and suffering at the same time by keeping the line so high, perfect and precise. It was one of the things Flick insisted on. It was and is his style of play, the way he wanted the team to play. We polished it to perfection," Inigo said when asked about playing in Flick's system.
"It was a year in which I enjoyed myself to the fullest and learned a lot. I didn’t know what it was like to win titles, as I had only won the Super Cup with Athletic, and suddenly there were finals and I was able to win and enjoy them… gives me goosebumps."
Currently, Inigo is enjoying his time in Saudi Pro League at Al Nassr as Jorge Jesus' men have had a perfect start to their new season with four wins out of the first four league games.
Barcelona news and related links
- Barcelona told to axe Hansi Flick over shocking Lewandowski treatment
- Spain coach dismisses Barcelona boss Hansi Flick's comments on Lamine Yamal's injury
- Hansi Flick breaks silence after Barcelona star’s costly error