Martin James: Who is Cologne’s exciting new France youth international?
Cologne have a new goalkeeper among their ranks after securing the services of Paris Saint-Germain’s Martin James. Find out more about the young stopper below…
Stats correct as of 26 July
Martin James
Age: 18 (born 14 February 2008)
Club: Cologne
Position: Goalkeeper
Country: France (one U19 cap)
Key stats
Born in Versailles, James was snapped up by Paris Saint-Germain as a youngster and progressed through the club’s youth ranks, featuring 27 times for PSG U19s in 2025/26 - including nine UEFA Youth League appearances - before being called upon by head coach Luis Enrique following an injury to third-choice goalkeeper Renato Marin.
Although yet to make his senior debut, Martin gained valuable experience after being named among the substitutes for PSG’s UEFA Champions League games against Tottenham Hotspur, Athletic Club, Sporting Lisbon and Newcastle United.
Martin was awarded his France U19 debut in March 2026 and recorded a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory over Hungary in the UEFA U19 European championship qualification stage.
Impressing Cologne scouts, James signed a three-year contract with the Billy Goats through to 2029. "The club has shown me a path that I want to go on with this incredible support," he expressed, upon swapping the Eiffel Tower for the Cologne Cathedral.
Plays a bit like: Gregor Kobel
At 6'1", Martin proves an agile shot-stopper with an ability to get down low despite his towering frame. Additionally, the Frenchman has excellent command of his box, similar to that of Borussia Dortmund's Gregor Kobel.
Did you know?
James featured in PSG’s 5-2 victory over Tottenham in the Youth League in November 2025 before being named a substitute for the first team just five hours later.
What they’re saying
“Martin is a very exciting goalkeeping talent with a lot of potential to develop. He has enjoyed a great footballing education at a fantastic club, is a youth international for France and has what is required to take the next steps in his development with us.” – Thomas Kessler, Cologne managing director
