Íñigo Martínez is indeed a rock-solid player on the field, but there’s just as much to note about his life beyond the stadium lights. With his latest move from Athletic Bilbao to FC Barcelona, Martínez brings not only defensive skills to the table but also a sense of family values and a story that inspires both on and off the pitch.

Born in the coastal town of Ondarroa in Spain’s Biscay province, Íñigo Martínez started his football career with the Real Sociedad B team, debuting professionally in 2009. Through these early years of his journey to becoming one of Spain’s notable center-backs, he met the love of his life, Nerea. The couple shares deep connections in the Basque region, a place that helped them build personal and professional memories before they made the big move to Barcelona.

Íñigo and Nerea got married in 2017, and since then, they have been together. When Íñigo’s transfer to Barcelona seemed imminent, Nerea was reportedly already looking for a home in the city for the couple and their two daughters, showing the strength and commitment she brings to their relationship.

A family of four: Meet Nikole and Paule

Nerea and Íñigo are parents to two beautiful daughters. Nikole, who is six years of age, and Nikole, who is four years of age. Even though the father dominates the playing field with his great defensive skills, it is these two girls who seem to have dominated his heart. During times of leisure, Íñigo is mostly accompanied by his daughters, playing with them and sharing precious small family moments.

Nikole, the couple’s eldest daughter, has already started attending school. She is known to be quite a curious child, often sharing her excitement about new things and experiences with her family. Paule, their younger daughter, is only a couple of years behind. She brings a spark of playfulness to their home. The family enjoys exploring the city and often takes small trips into the countryside for rest and rejuvenation.

The family has been spotted roaming around Barcelona on quite a few occasions as they enjoy this lively city as part of getting accustomed to the new city. Moving to Barcelona presents not only a new chapter for Íñigo’s career but also a fresh opportunity for his entire family to grow together.

Íñigo Martínez’ move to Barcelona

When Íñigo signed with Barcelona in July 2023, it marked a new stage of his career. It represented a fresh start, though one that came with the challenges. Injury prevented him from diving straight into competitive-level action. The financial difficulties facing Barcelona nearly made things more complicated.

Soon, Íñigo came off the bench and made a substitute appearance in a La Liga game for Barcelona against Osasuna, one he would never forget. Then in October 2024, he celebrated his first Champions League goal with his family. And finally, returning to top form, goal-scoring debut, he is firmly established with the team. Nerea has been by his side, cheering him on quietly but fervently.

As Íñigo Martínez looks forward to more milestones with Barcelona, Nerea and their daughters remain central to his journey. The Martínez family was welcomed warmly by the city’s vibrant culture and love for football, and with open hearts, they seemed ready to call the town their new home.

With this new chapter in Barcelona, settled fans are sure to experience much more from and with this inspiring family. Íñigo’s journey with Barcelona is just beginning, and with his wife and children by his side, there is no doubt he will continue to shine on and off the field.