Defensive Knockback: Al Nassr’s Momentum Tested as Inigo Martinez Hurts at Training
16 November 2025
Al Nassr were handed a defensive blow during the current international break as Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus works to fine-tune every element of the squad. The club remains top of the Saudi Pro League with 24 points from eight games and also leads their AFC Champions League group with four straight wins and 12 points. The setback centers on Spanish defender Inigo Martinez, who pulled a hamstring and was ruled out of training by the medical staff, while Martinez undertook rehabilitation sessions in the gym. The medical team will monitor him closely as the group trains to keep all other elements ready for the next fixtures.
Defensive Shock
The Saudi sports daily The Sports reported on Sunday that a defensive shock hit the Portuguese coach’s plans. The injury to Martinez creates a gap at the back as Al Nassr eyes crucial upcoming fixtures. The defender reportedly only undertook rehab sessions in the gym under the supervision of the club’s performance staff.
The report confirmed Martinez’s limited involvement in full training, with the rest of the squad continuing their preparation under careful medical oversight.
What Happened in Training?
Jesus ordered a tactical drill with the club’s under-21s, and his side won that session 3-1. After the exercise, the coach granted players a 24-hour rest before resuming training on Tuesday to ready themselves for the match against Al Gulf on Sunday at the First Park, as the campaign’s ninth round approaches.
Jesus aims to have all players in peak condition to compete for every trophy this season, with the squad’s depth increasingly tested and trusted as the calendar tightens.
Tough Challenges Ahead
Al Nassr faces a demanding run of fixtures once the international window closes. The league title remains the biggest dream after years of pursuit, and success in Asia could shape the club’s trajectory for the season. With the presence of Ronaldo, Mane, and Brozovic alongside a developing local core, the team believes it can contend on multiple fronts.
The fans’ confidence is high, but the road is not easy; the next rounds include tight league clashes and decisive continental ties where small margins decide everything. Sustaining the momentum will require maintaining attacking rhythm, shoring up defensive solidity, and managing fatigue from international duties across the squad.
A Big Spark
Since taking charge, Jorge Jesus has instilled a different rhythm at Al Nassr. The team now plays with closer lines, clearer positioning, and quicker, smarter movement from the back to the front. Individual brilliance remains, but the collective structure has sharpened; defense has become a cohesive unit capable of closing spaces, while midfielders and attackers coordinate to press and create from deep positions.
The balance under Jesus has started to show, with a stronger spine and a more versatile attack. The squad’s growth suggests a confident blueprint for competing on all fronts, even as injuries test depth and form.
Punchline 1: The defense is so tight the ball needs a visa to cross the line. Punchline 2: If offense is a joke, this defense is the punchline—the finale is a clean sheet.
