Inigo Martínez Confirms He Will Stay at Al-Nassr Until 2027 as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Defensive Partner

Inigo Martínez has confirmed he will remain at Al-Nassr for another season, extending his stay until the summer of 2027. The veteran Spanish centre-back made the announcement as the Saudi Pro League champions prepare for a new campaign and a managerial change, providing clarity over a key defensive position alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.

Why it matters

Martínez’s decision removes a major question mark in Al-Nassr’s squad planning. He was a regular during the title-winning season, and his commitment for another year maintains continuity at the heart of the defence while the club searches for a replacement for outgoing manager Jorge Jesus and assesses other potential changes to the squad.

What Martínez said about his future

Martínez explained that his original move to Saudi Arabia had been on a one-year contract with an option for a second season, which depended on his and his family’s ability to adapt to life in a new country. He said the adjustment was difficult at first, but after the season’s progress and experience he and his family decided to stay for another year.

Martínez’s 2025–26 season: the numbers

Across all competitions in the campaign, Martínez made 43 appearances, starting 42 of those matches and accumulating 3,717 minutes. He also contributed goals at important moments and supplied leadership that helped stabilise Al-Nassr’s defence during their title run.

Squad and managerial implications

With Martínez confirmed to stay, Al-Nassr retain an experienced centre-back who has recently played at the highest European level. That continuity is relevant as the club looks to replace Jorge Jesus as head coach and manage other potential personnel changes ahead of the new season.

• Martínez signed initially on a one-year deal with an option for a second season.
• He made 43 appearances, started 42 times and played 3,717 minutes in the season.
• Martínez has confirmed he will stay at Al-Nassr until summer 2027.
• His decision brings defensive continuity as the club searches for a new manager after Jorge Jesus.

Context: why Al-Nassr needed clarity

Reports and speculation in recent weeks had raised questions about Martínez’s future, including possible interest from abroad and talk of a return to Spain. Given his influence in the title campaign, uncertainty over his contract generated discussion among supporters and pundits about how the club’s defence would be rebuilt or retained for the coming season.

This update arrives while Al-Nassr prepare for the next campaign; securing Martínez reduces the need for an immediate high-profile defensive replacement and ensures leadership at centre-back during a period of managerial transition.

What happens next

Martínez’s public confirmation closes one chapter of transfer-room speculation, but further verification is advisable: a formal club announcement or contract paperwork detail would fully confirm whether Al-Nassr activated the option clause or whether both parties agreed to the extension. For supporters, the practical outcome is that Martínez will be available for selection through the 2026–27 season, barring any future transfers or unforeseen developments.