Punjab FC have bolstered their midfield options ahead of the AIFF Super Cup 2025 with the signing of experienced Spanish attacking midfielder Dani Ramírez Fernández on a one-year deal.
The 33-year-old joins the I-League side on a free transfer, becoming the club’s second overseas signing of the season after Bosnian midfielder Samir Zeljković. The addition of Ramírez is seen as a major coup for Punjab FC, who are looking to inject creativity and experience into their attacking setup as they prepare for the upcoming domestic campaign, beginning October 25 in Goa.
Born in Leganés, Spain, Dani Ramírez’s footballing journey began at his hometown club CD Leganés, before he caught the attention of scouts from Real Madrid. He joined the Los Blancos youth academy, spending four crucial years in the club’s development system and making appearances for Real Madrid C. In 2014, he made the switch to Valencia CF B, continuing to develop his game in the competitive atmosphere of Spain’s lower divisions. Subsequent stints with Getafe CF and Internacional de Madrid further shaped his craft as an intelligent and technically adept midfielder capable of dictating tempo from central and advanced positions.
Ramírez’s career took an upward turn in 2017 when he ventured abroad, signing with Stomil Olsztyn SA in Poland. His flair, vision, and playmaking ability quickly made him a fan favorite, and his performances earned him a transfer to ŁKS Łódź in 2018. Over the next two seasons, Ramírez played a pivotal role in guiding the club to top-flight football, establishing himself as one of the standout midfielders in the Ekstraklasa.
His consistency attracted the attention of Lech Poznań, one of Poland’s biggest clubs, where he reached the pinnacle of his European career winning the Ekstraklasa title in the 2021–22 season. During his time in Poznań, he became known for his exceptional passing range, tactical discipline, and knack for unlocking defenses with precise through balls. Following his success in Poland, Ramírez spent a brief period in Belgium with Zulte Waregem before returning to ŁKS Łódź for another spell. Most recently, he featured for Manisa FK in Turkey’s TFF First League during the 2024–25 season, making 34 appearances and contributing seven goals and four assists, demonstrating his enduring creativity and reliability in the attacking third.
A Proven Playmaker with Leadership and Vision
Known for his ability to read the game and execute intricate passes in tight spaces, Dani Ramírez adds both quality and composure to Punjab FC’s midfield. His versatility allows him to operate as a traditional No.10 or as a deep-lying playmaker, capable of linking transitions between defense and attack. At 33, Ramírez brings with him over a decade of experience across Spain, Poland, Belgium, and Turkey, and his arrival underscores Punjab FC’s ambition to combine tactical discipline with European-style creativity.
“Joining Punjab FC feels like the perfect next step,” Ramírez said after completing his move. “I’m genuinely thrilled to start this new chapter and contribute to the club’s goals. Having played in different leagues and cultures, I’m eager to use that experience to help the team succeed. The club’s vision is inspiring, and I can’t wait to meet my teammates, adapt to the new environment, and give absolutely everything for the supporters.”
Ramírez is expected to slot into the creative hub of the team, linking up with Punjab’s domestic attackers while providing the leadership and technical assurance that comes with his pedigree.
Punjab FC’s Technical Director, Nikolaos Topoliatis, emphasized that the club’s latest acquisition is part of a broader recruitment strategy aimed at building a cohesive and competitive squad for the season ahead. “Our approach to recruitment has always been strategic identifying players who not only fit our system but also bring strong character and professionalism,” Topoliatis explained. “In Dani, we have found a player with a proven track record, leadership qualities, and experience across multiple top leagues. His presence will strengthen key areas of the pitch and bring balance to our overall structure.”
He added that the Spaniard’s experience would also have a long-term developmental impact on Punjab’s younger players.
“We’re confident Dani will not only elevate our performance levels but also positively influence our emerging talents. His professionalism and understanding of the game make him an ideal role model within the squad.”
Punjab FC’s Ambitions Ahead of the Super Cup
Heading into the AIFF Super Cup 2025, Punjab FC are eager to make a statement following a mixed domestic campaign last season. Under the guidance of head coach Staikos Vergetis, the club has prioritized tactical evolution, possession-based football, and sharper transitions in attack areas where Ramírez’s inclusion is expected to make an immediate impact.
The Spaniard’s creativity will complement the defensive resilience offered by Zeljković and the dynamism of Punjab’s homegrown midfielders, including the promising Indian core that continues to develop under the club’s renewed technical setup. The Super Cup presents Punjab FC with an opportunity to test their revamped squad against top-tier opposition and gauge their readiness for the season ahead. With their new Spanish signing at the heart of midfield, expectations are high that Punjab’s attacking rhythm will see a noticeable lift.
For Dani Ramírez, the move to India marks not just a new professional challenge but also a chance to contribute to the growth of football in one of Asia’s fastest-developing markets. Having played under varied systems across Europe, he brings an adaptable footballing intelligence that could redefine Punjab’s midfield approach.
As the 2025–26 campaign nears, Punjab FC’s blend of youth and experience now bolstered by the presence of an accomplished European playmaker sets the stage for what could be one of their most promising seasons in recent memory.
Player Profile – Dani Ramírez Fernández
- Nationality: Spanish 🇪🇸
- Age: 33
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Previous Club: Manisa FK (Turkey)
- Career Highlights:
- Ekstraklasa Champion (2021–22, Lech Poznań)
- Former player at Real Madrid C, Valencia B, Lech Poznań, Zulte Waregem
- Over 300 professional appearances across Spain, Poland, Belgium & Turkey
Punjab FC’s vision of combining European experience with Indian potential gains a creative heartbeat and in Dani Ramírez, they’ve found a midfielder who knows how to make teams tick.
