ISL 2022-23: Chennaiyin FC sign Julius Duker as team’s last overseas recruit

Chennaiyin FC has signed the services of Julius Duker as the team’s final foreign recruit ahead of the ninth season of the Hero Indian Super League 2022-23, the club announced on their social media handle on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old German, who plays in the midfield, becomes Marina Machans’ fifth overseas signing after Vafa Hakhamaneshi, Fallou Diagne, Petar Sliskovic, and Kwame Karikari.

Duker has scored 35 goals and 23 assists in 210 professional matches he has played in his career so far. Chennaiyin FC will be the first club outside Germany for Duker.

“Our final foreign signing Julius will be a great fit in this youthful and fresh-looking team we have put together. His versatility will be a good asset for the team,” said Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani.

Duker is delighted to join hands with Chennaiyin FC and he is looking forward to giving his best for the two-time champions.

Duker said, “I’m proud to be part of this big club. First of all, I would like to thank the fans for all the messages and the warm welcome.

“I’m just excited to finally be able to meet the team, the staff and our fans. Of course, I’m motivated to achieve the goals set by the club. I will work hard to create successful times for the club again. But first I want to get to know the team and get in shape.”

Duker will join the midfield with players like Crivellaro, Anirudh Thapa, and Mohammed Rafique. The German has been playing in professional leagues since 2014 and thus has all the experience under his belt. He has played for German clubs like Eintracht Braunschweig and SV Meppen.

On the other hand, Chennaiyin FC could not qualify for the semifinal stages in the previous season as they only managed five wins in their 20 league stage matches. Thus, they finished at eighth place in the points table and they will be determined to turn the tables in the next season.