Chennaiyin FC sign French midfielder Madih Talal for ISL 2024-25
Synopsis
Chennaiyin FC have brought in Madih Talal — the ISL's top assist provider in 2023 — as they look to sharpen their attack for the upcoming season. The French midfielder's record of 6 goals and 10 assists in 22 games for Punjab FC makes him one of the most impactful creative players the league has seen in recent years.
Key Takeaways
Chennaiyin FC signed French attacking midfielder Madih Talal , 28 , on 12 August .
Talal was the ISL's top assist provider in 2023 , recording 10 assists and 6 goals in 22 appearances for Punjab FC .
He has previously played for Punjab FC , East Bengal FC , and Jamshedpur FC in the ISL.
His European career included spells at Angers , Amiens , Las Rozas , and A.E.
Co-owner Vita Dani cited Talal's 'consistency, creativity and ability to make a difference in key moments' as reasons for the signing.
Chennaiyin FC on Wednesday, 12 August confirmed the signing of French attacking midfielder Madih Talal, bringing the 28-year-old back to the Indian Super League (ISL) after stints at three different clubs in the competition. The move adds a proven creative force to a Chennaiyin squad building toward its objectives for the upcoming season.
Talal's ISL Track Record
Talal is no stranger to Indian football. He previously represented Punjab FC, East Bengal FC, and Jamshedpur FC across three seasons in the ISL. His debut campaign at Punjab FC in 2023 was particularly striking — he registered 6 goals and 10 assists in 22 appearances, finishing as the league's top assist provider that season.
Career Before India
Before arriving in the ISL, Talal built his professional career in Europe. He came through the ranks at Angers and Amiens in France, then moved to Las Rozas in Spain and A.E. Kifisia in Greece before making the switch to Indian club football. His European background gives Chennaiyin a technically accomplished option in the final third.
What Talal Said
'Joining Chennaiyin FC is an exciting new chapter for me,' said Talal after completing the transfer. 'It's an honour to be part of one of the ISL's most successful clubs, and I can't wait to begin working with my teammates, the coaching staff, and connect with the passionate fans. The club has built an exciting young squad, and I'm looking forward to contributing my experience as we push towards our goals together.'
Club's View on the Signing
Vita Dani, co-owner of Chennaiyin FC, welcomed the Frenchman and highlighted the qualities that made him a target. 'We are delighted to welcome Madih Talal to Chennaiyin FC. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation in the Indian Super League through his consistency, creativity and ability to make a difference in key moments,' Dani said.
Notably, Talal's familiarity with Indian conditions, club structures, and the tempo of ISL football reduces the usual adaptation risk associated with overseas signings. His blend of goal threat and chance creation addresses a key need for Chennaiyin as they look to compete at the sharp end of the table in the season ahead.
Point of View
High-upside move for Chennaiyin — they are recruiting a player who already knows the ISL's pace, physicality, and tactical demands. What makes this noteworthy is that his 2023 assist tally was not a one-club anomaly; he sustained output across three different ISL franchises. The question for Chennaiyin is whether they can build a system that consistently feeds him in the half-spaces where he is most dangerous, rather than using him as a plug-in solution. If the young squad around him develops, Talal could be the creative engine that pushes Chennaiyin back into title contention.
NationPress
12 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Chennaiyin FC sign Madih Talal?
Chennaiyin FC signed Talal to strengthen their attack with an experienced, creative midfielder who already knows the demands of the ISL. Co-owner Vita Dani highlighted his consistency and ability to influence key moments as the primary reasons.
What clubs has Madih Talal played for before Chennaiyin FC?
Before joining Chennaiyin, Talal played for Punjab FC, East Bengal FC, and Jamshedpur FC in India. His European career included spells at Angers and Amiens in France, Las Rozas in Spain, and A.E. Kifisia in Greece.
What was Madih Talal's best season in the ISL?
His 2023 season with Punjab FC stands out — he scored 6 goals and provided 10 assists in 22 games, making him the league's top assist provider that year. It was this performance that established his reputation as one of the ISL's most effective creative players.
Who owns Chennaiyin FC?
Chennaiyin FC is co-owned by Vita Dani, among others. Dani personally welcomed Talal's signing and spoke about the club's ambitions for the upcoming ISL season.
