Spanish futsal star Miguel “Miguelín” Sayago Martí has joined Fortuna Düsseldorf in a significant move for the German Bundesliga Futsal. The 39-year-old from Mallorca is expected to make his debut this Saturday against MCH Futsal Club Bielefeld, following the completion of transfer formalities.
Speaking about his move to Germany, Miguelín expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter in his career. Following his departure from Italy last season, he sees this as an opportunity to contribute to futsal’s development in Germany. The transfer was facilitated through his connection with Matthias Ebert of the Monheim am Rhein-based Soccerversum sports agency.
“While I had several options, including an offer to return to Italy from Alex Yepes, I chose Germany because it offers the flexibility to balance family life with playing,” Miguelín explained. “I’m in good shape and excited to join a club that’s serious about developing futsal.”
Miguelín’s impressive career includes a decade-long stint as the franchise player at ElPozo Murcia, where he collected multiple honors including three Spanish Super Cups and two Copa del Rey titles. His individual accolades include being named the best player and wing of the 2010-11 season. With the Spanish national team, he secured two European championships and earned both MVP honors and the Golden Boot (shared with Mario Rivillos) at Belgrade 2016.
Fortuna Düsseldorf
Dennis Gerritzen, Fortuna Düsseldorf’s sports director, welcomed the signing enthusiastically, emphasizing the value of Miguelín’s experience. The club aims to maintain their league position and perform well in the playoffs.
Fortuna Düsseldorf has been active in the winter transfer market, also securing German international Sandro Jurado and Afghanistan World Cup captain Mohammad Ali Fayazi. The club already has Spanish representation in Catalan player Andreu Alvez.
The German Bundesliga Futsal, now in its fourth season, comprises ten teams, with eight qualifying for the title playoffs. Currently, Fortuna Düsseldorf sits in seventh place, having recently lost 2-5 to SV Pars Neu-Isenburg. While TSV Weilimdorf holds the current championship title, the league continues to develop, though German futsal still faces challenges on the international stage, as evidenced by a recent 9-0 defeat to Ukraine in European Championship qualifying.