Athletic Bilbao should be doing everything they can to keep Inigo Martinez as Premier League outfit Aston Villa battle Barcelona for the Spain international, former La Liga coach Javier Clemente tells Onda Vasca.
When it comes to replacing their star players, Athletic tend to face greater challenges than most. One of the most historic clubs in Spain cannot simply dip into their pit of resources and splash out on a readymade successor.
It was decided all the way back in 1912 that only those native to the Basque country are eligible to wear their red-and-white shirt. And those principles remain to this day. As such, there will be a limited pool of players available to head coach Ernesto Valverde if Martinez does indeed bid farewell when his contract expires in July.
“We know that he is a very good player,” says Clemente, who has enjoyed three different spells as Athletic’s head coach.
“He has a character that suits Athletic perfectly; his dedication, his fight. If I were president, I would have already resolved this or almost resolved it.”
Aston Villa rivall Barcelona for Spain star Inigo Martinez
A Barcelona side boasting one of Europe’s most watertight backlines are keen to add another high-quality centre-half to their ranks. Xavi’s league leaders will face plenty of competition, however; El Desmarque reporting that Atletico Madrid are also admirers of the 31-year-old.
As is Aston Villa coach Unai Emery; the former Villarreal, Seville and Valencia coach. Martinez has been capped capped 19 times by Spain. He would provide further competition for the left-sided centre-half spot at Villa Park, while raising questions regarding the futures of Tyrone Mings and Diego Carlos.
“If he stays, great,” Clemente adds. “I would tell him that he is a great kid and that he should stay. But we are taking a long time and other teams are already in the way. The longer we take, the more teams (will show an interest).
“And also he is going to get tired (with negotiations).”
Athletic paid a club-record £28 million for Martinez back in 2018; snapping up one of Europe’s most underrated defenders from Basque neighbours Real Sociedad.
Interestingly, Aston Villa are also reportedly keen on his San Mames team-mate Nico Williams.
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