Nigeria midfielder Israel Isaac Ayuma has joined Maritimo from Croatia’s NK Istra on loan, with the 20-year-old’s spell in Portugal running until 30 June 2027.
The central midfielder switches from the SuperSport HNL to Liga Portugal after making his senior breakthrough with Istra. His move was completed on 2 August 2026, and he is contracted to remain with Maritimo until the end of the loan period.
Ayuma was born in Orhuwhorun, Nigeria, on 8 August 2005 and stands at 1.85m. He spent the previous two seasons with Istra, having initially joined the club’s under-19 side from Mavlon in August 2023 before moving into the Croatian club’s senior setup in July 2024.
His arrival gives Maritimo another midfield option as the Portuguese club begins its 2026-27 campaign. Ayuma’s preferred position is central midfield, and he joins after being included in Istra’s squad for the new season.
The move represents Ayuma’s first senior switch away from Istra and his first spell in Portugal. It also marks a return to a temporary transfer arrangement for the player, with his rights remaining at NK Istra during his time at Maritimo.
Ayuma’s current market value is listed at €300,000. His record includes competition experience in Croatia’s top flight, although his appearances, goals and assists for the senior side are not recorded in the available career summary.
Maritimo, whose national club designation is CS Maritimo, will retain Ayuma until 30 June 2027, when the loan is scheduled to end and he is due to return to NK Istra.
