Iñigo Martínez has opened up about his recent departure from Barcelona, sharing candid details about the conversation that led to his decision. Speaking exclusively with Gerard Romero, the experienced defender revealed that he discussed his situation with coach Hansi Flick while still on the plane returning from the pre-season tour. “We talked about everything, and I could tell the coach was genuinely surprised,” Iñigo explained. “I had to let him know that I had received an offer that I simply couldn’t turn down.”
Making the decision wasn’t easy for Iñigo. He admitted that the choice came with pressure and urgency, requiring him to act quickly. “It was a tough moment because I had to decide fast,” he said. Despite the difficulty, Iñigo expressed gratitude toward Barcelona for the professionalism shown during his exit. “I thanked the club for making the process smooth for me. Not every club handles departures with such respect, and I truly appreciate that,” he added.
Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Iñigo described last season as the pinnacle of his career. “Last year was, without a doubt, the best of my career,” he said. However, he also acknowledged the challenges of staying another season in the squad. “I knew it would be very difficult to continue here for another year,” he explained, highlighting the personal and professional factors that influenced his choice.
Ultimately, Iñigo’s exit underscores the complexities top players face in balancing opportunity, loyalty, and career growth. His decision, though emotional, was guided by practicality and ambition, and his respect for the club remained evident throughout the process. This move marks the end of a significant chapter in his career while opening the door to a new journey elsewhere.