 He had been limited to training with Hércules for several months.29-year-old Cristian moved abroad for the first time ever in 2012–13, splitting the season between Cyprus' and Alki Larnaca FC and Bulgarian club PFC Cherno More Varna.He was drafted by Chennaiyin FC in the second round of the 2014 ISL Inaugural International Draft, scoring his first goal for the club from a free kick against Mumbai City FC where he played in place of injured Elano, and contributing to a 3–0 away win.