Inigo Martínez is officially a new Barcelona defender. He was close to joining the club two times in the past, but it turned out to be a case of third time lucky. The Basque centre-back, rooted in his land, did not hesitate to accept Barca’s call when his contract at Athletic Club expired. “Everything convinces you: the sporting project, the ambition, the desire. It doesn’t matter what situation Barca is in; when they call you, your eyes start to sparkle! When the best team in the world wants you – you pack your suitcase quickly. And Xavi was a great factor. Watching him play was terrific; having him as a coach is just mesmerizing. Inigo used to watch Xavi play for Barcelona and the Spanish national team. He admits he’s over the moon at the prospect of working with a living legend.”When Barca calls you, the other teams are on the sidelines. From the first call, I did not hesitate. Xavi’s words were magnificent, and that’s when I noticed he wanted to see me in his team. That makes it much easier for you to make that first step.”Iñigo Martinez: “I’m proud to sign for the best club in the world.” pic.twitter.com/Iw037sQj87— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) July 13, 2023 Now he has started working with the rest of his colleagues, and he is delighted. “Since my arrival, the treatment towards me has been wonderful – from my teammates and everyone who works at the club. I have already seen what types of people they are. I am happy and happy to be part of this great family”. The Basque central defender comes with a lot of ambition, which goes without saying at Camp Nou. “Those who know me know what I can contribute, but I would highlight my competitive character. I come to work like the best and try to win all possible titles. Because the club and the fans deserve it.”##NAJAVA_MECA_7369755##Currently, Inigo Martínez is on the sidelines due to fasciitis that has been dragging on for a year. “The injury is complicated; it’s a nuisance that lasts for a while. I feel much better, and I have noticed a big improvement. Xavi told me there was no rush and that recovering was important. I’ll be with the team shortly.”He was close to joining Barcelona on several occasions. In Ernesto Valverde’s time, only the signature was missing. There has been some uncertainty before his signing was made official this time around, but the player was calm. “Ghosts from the past, I haven’t had them.It’s true that I was close to arriving a few years ago, but football works like that. I’m officially here, and I’m a FC Barcelona player. I’m happy to be here, to meet my colleagues, get to know my new city, and to learn the new language. And I do not doubt that soon I will be able to answer in Catalan.”Barca’s gamble with El Tigre: If it turns out to be a hit, it could be a saving graceAt the moment, the new Barcelona defender is not registered due to Barca’s financial restrictions.”I’m not worried about anything.” He is also not worried about criticism because of his age, 32 years old. “There are older players, and they continue to perform at a high level in great teams. I come here to enjoy and demonstrate. I want people to see me here.”The Basque player is sure that Barca will improve from last season. And he has a burning desire to play in the Champions League. “I’m very excited about it. I was lucky to play it while I was at Real Sociedad, but not with Athletic Club. Now I’m coming to a club that competes in these competitions, and I want to experience these games. There’s nothing better for a player.”
