New hope: Zahnen Martinez is moving to SV Sandhausen!

New hope: Zahnen Martinez is moving to SV Sandhausen!

July 12, 2025 will be marked by a striking transfer in the Regionalliga West. Pablo Zahnen Martinez, who is only 20 years old and comes from FC Schalke 04's U23 team, signed with Southwest Regional League club SV Sandhausen. His move is primarily accompanied by the bond with his former coach Olaf Janßen, who is now in charge of affairs in Sandhausen. Zahnen Martinez is a talented central defender who played 13 games for Schalke U23 in the Regionalliga West last season after joining Schalke from Viktoria Köln in the summer of 2024.

The young player was born on February 21, 2005 and began his football career in the youth ranks at SV Kyllburg and JFV Wittlicher Tal. In 2019 he took the step to Eintracht Frankfurt and played through all the youth teams up to the U19 level. This shows that Zahnen Martinez has a strong foundation that he now wants to build on at the Sandhäuser.

New phase of life in the Hardtwald

With his move to SV Sandhausen, Zahnen Martinez not only wants to make a fresh start, but also wants to gain match practice. He had already made an impression as a trial player at SV Sandhausen and was able to train with the team during the training camp. This was also viewed positively by coach Olaf Janßen, who highlighted the defender's strengths and potential. After two test matches during the training camp, it is clear that Zahnen Martinez has received a permanent place in the squad for the 2025/26 season.

SV Sandhausen is pleased to welcome Zahnen Martinez as the 20th player to its ranks. However, there remains silence about the exact terms of the contract, which is not unusual when it comes to new signings in football. One thing is certain: Zahnen Martinez will be able to play both in central defense and as a full-back, which speaks for the team's flexibility. That versatility could prove valuable, especially in a league as challenging as the Regionalliga West.

A look into the future

The challenges in the regional league should not be underestimated, but Zahnen Martinez not only brings talent, but also a good dose of ambition. After over 30 games in the U17 and U19 Bundesliga, he is well prepared to take the next step in his career. With the right conditions and under the guidance of Olaf Janßen, Zahnen Martinez could attract attention in the coming season and become an important part of SV Sandhausen.

You can also find more information about transfers and news about the Regionalliga West at Transfer market.