Chennaiyin FC sign Eduardo Kau & Iñigo Martín ahead of ISL 2025–26

Left-footed Brazilian defender gives Clifford Miranda a new option to build from the back

Chennaiyin FC have continued reshaping their squad ahead of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 season, adding two fresh foreign faces before the January transfer window shut. After bringing in experienced campaigners Mohammed Ali Bemammer and Alberto Noguera, the Marina Machans have now completed the signings of Brazilian defender Eduardo Kau and Spanish forward Iñigo Martín.

The two additions address different needs in the squad: balance and build-up at the back, and depth and movement in the final third.

Eduardo Kau: Left-footed balance in defence

In modern recruitment, left-footed center backs are rare and highly valued, and Eduardo Kau fits that profile neatly. Standing at 6’3”, the Brazilian brings physical presence, aerial strength, and the ability to open play from the back—something head coach Clifford Miranda has been keen to add.

Kau has already experienced Asian football, with stints in Indonesia with Persikabo 1973 and in Thailand with Ayutthaya United. Those spells are expected to help him settle quickly in India, given the similarities in travel, climate, and physical demands. Before moving to Asia, Kau developed his game in Brazil with Avaí and later in Portugal with B-SAD (Belenenses).

Importantly, he has featured at the highest level in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, giving him exposure to top-tier tactical systems. That grounding, combined with his mobility and left-footed distribution, makes him a practical rather than flashy signing, one aimed at structure and stability rather than headlines.

Iñigo Martín adds attacking depth

Chennaiyin had already announced the signing of Spanish attacker Iñigo Martín, with the 26-year-old set to experience Indian football for the first time. A center-forward by trade, Martín is comfortable playing across the front line, offering flexibility in both formation and in-game adjustments.

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 joins 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.”

With these two signings, Chennaiyin FC continue to quietly rebuild, focusing on balance, adaptability, and profiles that fit the coach’s ideas rather than short-term glamour.

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