The future of Iñigo Martínez generates a lot of expectation in the European market for next summer. Recent reports indicate Manchester United's interest in the Ondarroa native, taking advantage of his possible exit from FC Barcelona at 'zero cost'. The 33-year-old center-back's contract ends in June, and although his renewal is well regarded by the board and coaching staff, there are currently no significant advances in the negotiations.
For the 'red devils', incorporating a player like the Basque would be important to strengthen a defense that is struggling to find its way this season. Those from Old Trafford have brought in Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt, but the Frenchman just debuted this month due to an injury, while the Dutchman is still far from the level he once exhibited at Ajax. So far, the team has conceded 24 goals in 18 matches, one of the reasons for their poor season in the Premier League (currently 14th).
Hansi Flick does not give up on Iñigo Martínez
At the beginning of November, Hansi Flick was asked about the future of the Ondarroa native, and his response left no room for speculation. The coach counts on the '5' for next season, but he is clear that the decision regarding the player's future depends entirely on the club and the center-back himself. So far in the 2024/25 season, the Basque leads the Barça squad in minutes played, with 2,136.
"His performance is great, he is a leader. It is a very young team, so it is important to have experienced players like Iñigo. In training, he usually wins all the matches. If he keeps playing like this, then he will definitely renew", commented the Barça coach. However, the Heidelberg native added: "discussing the contract is not part of my job. My job is to improve the team, but if it works, it is normal for the bond to be renewed", he pointed out in the press conference prior to the visit to Real Sociedad.
With the return of Ronald Araujo, both Iñigo and Pau Cubarsí may lose their spot in the XI. If he takes on a secondary role in the second half of the season, United's interest could be decisive in defining the future of the former Athletic defender, although it would be the first experience for the defender outside of Spain.