Íñigo Martínez

Full name: Íñigo Martínez Berriatua

Date of birth: 17 May 1991

Place of birth: Ondarroa, Biscay, Basque Country, Spain

Nationality: Spanish

Primary position: Centre-back

Height: 1.87 m (6 ft 1½ in)

Club career (highlights):

• Real Sociedad (youth and senior breakthrough) — Martínez came through Real Sociedad's youth system and made his first-team debut in 2009, establishing himself as a reliable central defender.
• Athletic Bilbao (2018–2023) — In January 2018 Martínez completed a high-profile transfer from Real Sociedad to Athletic Club (Athletic Bilbao). He became an important member of Athletic’s defense, known for strong marking, aerial ability and composure on the ball. He helped Athletic reach the 2020–21 Copa del Rey final and featured regularly in La Liga and European competitions during his time there.
• FC Barcelona (joined 2023) — After his spell with Athletic, Martínez moved to Barcelona in 2023 (included here to note subsequent career movement beyond Athletic Bilbao).

International career:

• Spain national team — Martínez earned caps for Spain, making his senior debut in 2013 and participating sporadically across subsequent years, including call-ups for UEFA Nations League and qualifying matches.
• Basque Country — He has also represented the unofficial Basque Country regional side in friendly matches.

Playing style and attributes:

• Reliable, physically strong centre-back with good positioning and tackling.
• Comfortable with the ball at his feet; capable of stepping into midfield to start build-up play.
• Effective in aerial duels and set-piece situations (both defensively and as a threat from corners/free kicks).

Notable honors and achievements:

• Copa del Rey runner-up with Athletic Club (2020–21)
• Regular inclusion in Spanish top-flight teams and European competition appearances

Additional notes: Martínez’s transfer from Real Sociedad to Athletic Bilbao in 2018 was widely covered in the Spanish press due to the rivalry between the Basque clubs. While at Athletic he was a first-team regular until his later move to Barcelona in 2023.