Al‑Nassr Supporters in Uproar Over Iñigo Martínez’s Omission Ahead of Al‑Ittihad Clash

When the team sheet for the Al‑Nassr versus Al‑Ittihad match was posted, a wave of disbelief rippled through the club’s social feeds. The name that was missing? Iñigo Martínez, the Spanish left‑back who’s been a regular starter since joining the Riyadh outfit.

Supporters didn’t mince words. One tweet read, “Why do they keep starting Al‑Najdi? Put on Martínez. Are you kidding me?” – a sentiment echoed by dozens of angry fans who felt the decision was, frankly, baffling.

Coach Ange Postecoglou, who has been praised for his attacking philosophy, stuck with Nawaf Al‑Aqidi in goal, paired the full‑backs Nawaf Boushal and Salem Al‑Najdi, and trusted a back‑line that also featured Abdulelah Al‑Amri and Mohamed Simakan. The omission of Martínez, however, left a sour taste, especially as he has been a reliable defensive outlet on the left flank.

Even former Al‑Nassr star Ibrahim Al‑Issa weighed in, predicting a win for the defending champions but warning that “not playing Martínez at left‑back might cost us.” His words resonated because the Spaniard’s defensive work rate and experience are often cited as key factors in tightly‑contested matches.

On the attacking front, the line‑up looked potent: Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman patrolling the wings, Samu Costa and Ângelo orchestrating the midfield, João Félix positioned just behind the talismanic Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo himself, who has already netted two goals in the first three league games, chimed in after the previous win over Al‑Taawoun, saying the victory was a team effort and not just about his own numbers.

Fans, however, are not buying the “team effort” excuse when it comes to a key defensive role. In a flurry of replies, users like @Eduardo_1677 asked, “Why not Martínez instead of Al‑Najdi?” while another, @inspectordaya77, warned, “Not playing Martínez at LB might cost us.” The chorus of discontent grew louder as the match approached.

Some argue that Postecoglou might be looking to shake things up, perhaps giving a younger player a chance, but critics say the timing is poor. Al‑Ittihad is a fierce rival, and every tactical edge matters. Dropping a seasoned defender could tip the balance in a game that often hinges on minute details.

All this comes as Ronaldo enters the final year of his contract with Al‑Nassr, and whispers about his future are louder than ever. The pressure on the coach, the players, and especially the Brazilian‑born striker, is palpable.

Whether Postecoglou’s gamble pays off will be decided on the pitch tomorrow. For now, Al‑Nassr’s fanbase remains vocal, waiting to see if the gamble turns into glory or regret.