Iñigo Martínez praised his new Al Nassr teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, whose competitiveness “surprised” the former Barcelona defender.
After helping lift Barcelona to a domestic treble last season, Martínez left Catalonia as a free agent this summer to continue his career in the Saudi Pro League. The 34-year-old joined the likes of Ronaldo, João Félix and Sadio Mané at Al Nassr.
Martínez reflected on the shock move in an interview with and even revealed his first impression of Ronaldo, as well as what continues to impress the center back about his new captain.
“His welcome surprised me. Often appearances are deceiving. He is approachable, competitive and lives football to the fullest,” Martínez said.
Since Martínez and Ronaldo have joined forces, Al Nassr have yet to drop points in 2025–26. Jorge Jesus’s men have claimed four victories in four matches, putting them atop the Saudi Pro League standings.
The Spain international has helped bring defensive stability to Al Nassr; the club has conceded just one goal in the Saudi top-flight this season, much in part thanks to his leadership and quality at the back.






