I-League: Gokulam Kerala FC rope in Spanish midfielder Edu Martinez ahead of 2025-26 season

Gokulam Kerala bolster their midfield with the addition of Martinez.

Gokulam Kerala FC are on the verge of creating a strong squad for the new season, with the ambition of securing the I-League title again and moving into the top-tier league with their performances.

In a bid for the same, the Malabarians have now roped in Spanish central midfielder Edu Martinez. The Kozhikode-based club has always had a reputation for their unique international signings and an equally talented grassroots team.

The addition of Edu Martinez is proof of continued efforts to strengthen their midfield with experience and technicality as they pursue their run for the silverware.

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A look at Edu Martinez’s footballing journey

• Born in Santander, Spain, Edu Martinez began his footballing journey in Cantabria, his native region. His formative years were shaped by the tactical and technical culture of Spanish football, which naturally developed him into a positionally aware midfielder.
• From there, his development continued at Atletico Levante.
• Additionally, he was also a part of FC Cartagena B in the 2020-21 season.
• Later, he joined Laredo in the 2022-23 season, followed by brief stints at SD Logrones and CD Cayon in 2023-24
• The midfielder in the previous season was a part of Lanciano since the beginning of the 2024-25 season.
• In the second half, he was a part of Canosa, where he developed a reputation as a dependable midfielder, known for his sharp short passing, calm decision-making, and defensive discipline.

How does Edu Martinez fit into Gokulam Kerala FC’s system?

Gokulam Kerala have always lacked an anchor in the midfield. In the previous season, Gokulam Kerala mostly played an offensive attack of style but lacked transition and control in the final third.

The addition of Edu Martínez will help bring depth to the midfield.

Edu Martinez is usually seen winning the possession, absorbing pressure, and starting the attacks with accurate ball distribution.

Martinez can also play in multiple positions, which can be helpful during injury situations and tactical adjustments during the campaign

A versatile midfielder bringing in technicality

Despite primarily being a central midfielder, Edu Martínez can also take up the role of an attacking midfielder, which is one of the roles that the Malabarians have been struggling with.

Although he perhaps has never played in any top Spanish leagues, he was a part of a system that was deeply rooted in game intelligence, discipline, and technicality, which will be helpful in the I-League.

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