Chennaiyin FC sign Spanish Forward Inigo Martin ahead of the new season
Chennai, Jan 30
Chennaiyin FC have completed the signing of Spanish attacker Inigo Martin, with the 26-year-old set to embark on his first stint in Indian football.
The Bilbao-born forward adds further firepower to the Marina Machans' attacking unit ahead of the upcoming season.
Martin arrives in Chennai following spells across Spain, Andorra, and Georgia, bringing with him valuable experience from different footballing environments. A centre forward by trade, Martin is comfortable operating anywhere across the frontline, offering tactical flexibility and movement in the final third.
He joined compatriot Alberto Noguera, Moroccan defensive midfielder Mohammed Ali Bemammer, and Indian winger Imran Khan as the club's newest arrivals.
Speaking upon his arrival, Martin said, "I'm very happy and excited to join Chennaiyin FC. It's a big opportunity for me and a new challenge in my career. I am really proud to be part of this family, and I can't wait to get started. I have a very good feeling about the Head Coach and the team.
"I believe he can help me improve as a player. I'm ready to learn, work hard, and adapt quickly. Playing in India is a new experience for me, and I'm approaching it with a lot of respect and motivation. I want to make the fans happy."
Hailing from Bilbao, Martin began his footballing journey with local side Arenas, where he progressed through the ranks before gaining experience in Spain's lower divisions. Seeking new challenges, he went on to build a solid professional career abroad, making his mark in Andorran and Georgian football.
The Spaniard enjoyed a productive spell with FC Santa Coloma in Andorra. He later featured in Georgia with FC Samtredia and FC Telavi, further developing his game across varied tactical systems and competitive landscapes.
Addressing the newest addition to the team, head coach Clifford Miranda said, "Iñigo is just the profile of player we were looking for in the position. He will bring a lot of dynamism to our final third in the way we want to go forward. His movements off the ball will bring us solutions in tight spaces. He comes with experience of playing in tougher leagues, which will be valuable."
Martin's signing adds another dimension to Chennaiyin FC's forward options, with his work rate, positional awareness, and adaptability expected to complement the squad's attacking structure.
Martin will link up with his new teammates in the coming days and begin training under the Chennaiyin FC coaching staff as the Marina Machans continue their preparations for the season ahead.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Exciting news! But I hope the management is also focusing on strengthening our Indian core. Foreign signings are good, but we need to develop our own talent for the long term. The balance is key.
From Bilbao to Chennai! That's quite a journey. Wishing him all the best. The humidity and pace of the game here will be different, but his experience should help. Let's get that trophy this season! 💙
His attitude seems spot on. "Ready to learn, work hard, and adapt" – that's exactly what we need. Welcome to the family! Can't wait to see him link up with Imran Khan on the wing.
Interesting profile. Playing in Georgia and Andorra is not easy. If Coach Miranda believes he fits the system, then I'm optimistic. The proof will be on the pitch. Hope he settles in quickly.
Finally some news to cheer about! The attacking unit looks promising on paper. Now the team needs to gel quickly. Pre-season will be crucial. All the best, Martin! Make us proud.
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