On March 1, 2025, Josep Martinez embarked on what many called the ultimate test for any goalkeeper: debuting as the starting position for Inter Milan against Napoli at the fiercely competitive Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. His performance was awaited not only by fans but also by club officials, considering this match held significant weight—potentially determining the leading position in Serie A.
Martinez, brought on as the backup for Yann Sommer, found himself stepping up following Sommer's thumb fracture, which had left him sidelined for several weeks. He was thrown directly onto the field of battle against one of the strongest sides in the league—a situation no goalkeeper would take lightly. Prior to this pivotal clash, he had amassed three appearances with Inter, all at their home ground, San Siro, securing clean sheets against Lazio, Genoa, and Udinese.
According to Corriere dello Sport, "Il banco di prova odierno sarà importante anche in ottica futura," emphasizing the weight of today's match for Martinez’s future at the club. Having joined Inter for approximately €13 million from Genoa the previous summer, there were high expectations attached to him, especially considering the kind of pressure Sommer had to deal with, being ten years older and still performing solidly as first-choice goalkeeper.
Facing Napoli at their illustrious stadium would mark Martinez's first significant outing away from home, not just as any match, but as one against top-tier competition. Historically, matches between these teams are fiery affairs, rich with rivalry, and Martinez needed to be more than just physically present; he needed to step up his game under the spotlight—a double debut as the Corriere dello Sport aptly pointed out.
The stakes were undoubtedly high, with both teams fighting for not just the title but for bragging rights. The anticipation of the Napoli crowd could be nerve-wracking for even the most seasoned professionals, let alone someone still finding his feet at the highest level.
The Spaniard's prior performances had been marked by several decisive saves. For example, against Lazio, he had thwarted Isaksen during the first half with the score still locked at 0-0, showcasing his developing skills and instincts as he adjusted to the high demands of Serie A football.
Despite his prior success, Martinez knew he would have to up the ante at Maradona. The environment would be broadcasting anything but friendly intentions. It would demand courage, focus, and skill from him as he looked to hold the line against the bought strength of Napoli’s offense, including established talents like Politano and Raspadori, who had previously caused issues for his teammates.
Although he had faced Napoli twice last season with results ending unfavorably at 2-2 and 1-1, the circumstances felt different this time. Coming off the solid performances filling the shoes of the injured Sommer, he had the opportunity to erase any doubts cast upon his abilities since his arrival. "Martinez ha [...] dimostrato tutta la sua affidabilità," mentioned La Gazzetta dello Sport, referring to how swiftly he proved himself capable of meeting the rigorous demands of top-flight football.
Now tasked with the immense responsibility of leading the defense of Inter Milan, Martinez bore the weight of expectation not just from the coaching staff but also from fans dreaming of glory. Due to Sommer's injury, Martinez had been preparing for the real possibility of taking the number one spot permanently should he perform exceptionally over the next few matches.
The situation was also pressing for Inter’s management; they had invested heavily, and expectations loomed large over Martinez to emerge as the possible successor to Sommer. His performance today would not only reflect on the present but could also carve the foundation for his future with the team—potentially setting the wheels of succession rolling sooner than expected.
The match against Napoli wasn't merely tactical. It was layered with emotional significance, and Martinez had to integrate both styles seamlessly. “Anche oggi avrà grosse responsabilità, un debutto importante, un doppio debutto, per via dell’avversario e della trasferta,” underscored Corriere dello Sport, recognizing the enormity of the encounter. The pressures Martinez would face extended beyond merely the scoreline; it was also about his personal assurance and placement within the squad.
With the match clock ticking down to kick-off, the questions were not only if he would maintain his clean sheet, but whether he would have the composure to follow through on what he began against weaker teams, now at the pulse of Serie A's high-stakes drama. His early matches had validated his transition from back-up to front-line keeper, yet what lay against Napoli would be the real proving ground to either cement his place or waver under pressure.
Should Martinez rise to the occasion, not only would it serve to bolster Inter's standings this season, but it would also align with broader ambitions as the team positioned themselves for European competition against Feyenoord coming soon. With multiple engagements requiring his attention, one thing was clear: Martinez’s performance at Maradona was pivotal, with the future of his role—and possibly Inter's aspirations—hanging by each save he could deliver.