The departure of Inigo Martinez was a sudden one for FC Barcelona. Out of the blue, the Spaniard ended up signing for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr. However, even for people within the club, it was a surprise, it seems.
Recently, journalist Xavi Hernández from Diari ARA (h/t SPORT) shared how Hansi Flick got to know about Martinez’s decision and just how sudden it was.
“He managed the matter in absolute silence, from the very first phone call when the Barça squad was still in Japan until he closed the terms with the wealthy Saudi club,” the article states. “While his teammates slept at night, he negotiated with the help of a trusted representative, José Tudela.”
“No member of the squad knew anything until the flight back to Barcelona. The first to hear the bombshell were Dani Olmo and Hansi Flick. They heard it mid-flight, straight from him.”
Barcelona manager’s Reaction to Iñigo Martínez’s Decision
As for Flick’s reaction to his decision, it seems that the German coach knew that his departure would take its toll on his high-line strategy, but he still did not try to persuade the Spaniard to stay, believing that he had earned the right to make such a decision for himself:
“He understood that Iñigo had earned the right to decide his future. He didn’t try to persuade him, even though he knew that without him, it would be difficult to maintain last season’s defensive risk.”
“Back in Barcelona, the former Athletic Club player met with Deco at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. The meeting lasted less than 10 minutes and allowed the player to secure his release without having to pay a transfer fee.”
“He only had to forgo certain amounts from contracts negotiated by his uncle, Carmelo Sánchez — who passed away two months ago — first with Mateu Alemany and later with Deco.”
Fortunately, Barcelona still have other great defenders to rely on. While it remains to be seen who becomes the regular partner for Pau Cubarsi in defense, Flick has a good selection to choose from and make his decision as the season progresses.
