Biography
Who is Cuco Martina?
Early life and background
Rhu-endly Aurelio Jean-Carlo Martina was born in Rotterdam in the Netherlands. He grew up in the southern part of the city with his mother and siblings. He did not have a relationship with his father, and he has often credited his older brother, Javier Martina, for acting as a father figure during his childhood. Javier is also a professional football player.
Despite some media speculation, Cuco Martina is not related to fellow footballer Derwin Martina. He developed his interest in sports early and eventually joined the youth system at Feyenoord. This period laid the foundation for his transition into senior professional football.
Professional club career
Martina began his senior career at RBC Roosendaal, where he signed his first professional contract in 2009. He moved to RKC Waalwijk in 2011, making 59 official appearances for the Eredivisie club over two seasons. In 2013, he transferred to FC Twente on a three-year contract, where he played another 59 matches across all competitions. During his time at Twente, he scored an important equalizer against Feyenoord in February 2014.
In 2015, Cuco Martina signed a two-year contract with the English Premier League club Southampton. He made his debut in the UEFA Europa League against Vitesse Arnhem. He scored his only goal for the Saints in a well-known victory over Arsenal in December 2015, becoming the first Curaçaoan to score in the Premier League. Following his release from Southampton, he joined Everton in 2017, reuniting with manager Ronald Koeman. His career later included spells with Stoke City, Feyenoord, Go Ahead Eagles, NAC Breda, and SV Victory Boys.
International football
Martina represents Curaçao on the international stage. He made his debut on August 9, 2011, during a friendly match against the Dominican Republic. He has been a key figure for the squad, serving as the team captain during major tournaments. He played for the team in qualifying matches for the 2014 and 2018 World Cups.
His time with the national team has included significant achievements, such as winning the 2017 Caribbean Cup in Martinique after defeating Jamaica in the final. He also captained the squad during their appearances at the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2017, 2019, and 2025. In September 2018, he scored his first international goal during a match against Grenada in the CONCACAF Nations League qualifying round.
Birthday and age
Cuco Martina was born on September 25, 1989, which makes Cuco 37 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. Cuco shares the date with 79 other famous people.
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