'All he has in his mind is winning' - Cristiano Ronaldo named a key reason ex-Barcelona star joined Al-Nassr as defender opens up on 'enriching conversations' with Portugal hero

Martinez joined Barcelona from Athletic Club in 2023 and played a crucial role in one of the club’s most successful domestic seasons in recent memory. He was part of the squad that celebrated a La Liga title, Copa del Rey glory and the Supercopa de Espana. He came alive under Hansi Flick, featuring in 46 matches across all competitions last season. He even chipped in with three goals and six assists, proving himself more than just a no-nonsense defender. But with only a year left on his contract, and a tempting free-agent offer on the table, the veteran centre-back decided it was time for a fresh challenge and made the move to Saudi Arabia in August.

Al-Nassr’s squad is now a galaxy of global talent. Alongside Ronaldo, Martinez will line up next to former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane and recent marquee signing Joao Felix. For the Spaniard, it was not just the money that caught his eye, but the chance to test himself in an entirely different footballing landscape.

"He's a fiercely competitive player; all he has in mind is winning," Martinez said of Ronaldo in an interview with Marca. "It's very exciting to be able to share a dressing room. When I got this offer, one of the things that attracted me was this, being able to play alongside Cristiano. I was surprised from the start by his approachable, helpful nature."

Martinez also opened up about his surprise at Ronaldo’s personality behind the scenes. Having previously only faced him on the pitch as an opponent, the Spaniard expected distance, but instead found warmth.

"Yes, I had competed against him, but I hadn't been that close, nor had I had any conversations with him," he said. "Arriving and having him waiting for you, having those enriching conversations, it's a pleasure to be able to play with him. It's mutual; there are situations on the pitch, especially defensively, where I can help him out. There are always conversations both on and off. There's a great atmosphere in the locker room. There's usually a lot of chatting; we don't usually spend much time talking."

Sitting top of the Saudi Pro League with Ronaldo and Mane firing on all cylinders, Al-Nassr's next challenge lies in Asia. The Riyadh powerhouse travel to Iraq to face Al Zawraa in the AFC Champions League Two, a contest that promises to test their mettle. With Ronaldo rolling back the years and new recruits like Martinez adding steel, Al-Nassr look primed to make a serious push for continental glory.