 After starting at hometown's Stade Brestois 29, he moved to AJ Auxerre in 1991, being a crucial part of an emergent side led by legendary Guy Roux; in 1992–93 they reached the UEFA Cup semi-finals and, four years later, achieved an historical double.On 30 May 1996, Martins signed with Deportivo de La Coruña from Spain.After an impressive first season in La Liga he lost his importance in the squad due to injuries, and returned in January 1998 to France, joining RC Strasbourg for one and a half years and winning the 2001 edition of the Coupe de France after defeating Amiens SC on penalties.