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INDIAN FOOTBALL TRANSFER NEWS/ DAILY NEWS ( 2021)
ODISHA FC ANNOUNCED THE NAME OF FOOTBALLERS AND CAPTAINS FOR ISL
3.11.21: The Bhubaneswar based Indian Super League club Odisha FC announced its official squad for the upcoming 8th edition of the tournament.Odisha FC had already announced the three captains for the season - Vinit Rai, Victor Mongil, and Hector Rodas, while three youth team graduates promoted in the senior team - Deven Sawhney, Akshunna Tyagi, and CVL Remtluanga.
THE TEAM FOR 8TH EDITION OF ISL
GOALKEEPERS: - Kamaljit Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Kumar.
DEFENDERS: Gaurav Bora, Lalruathara, Sahil Panwar, Hendry Antonay, Lalhrezuala Sailung, Sebastian Thangmuansang, Deven Sawhney, Victor Mongil, Hector Rodas.
MIDFEILDERS: Thoiba Singh Moirangthem, Vinit Rai, Paul Ramfangzauva, Isaac Vanmalsawma, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Liridon Krasniqi, Javi Hernandez, Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Nandhakumar Sekar, CVL Remtluanga, Nikhil Raj.
FORWARDS: Akshunna Tyagi, Daniel Lalhlimpuia, Aridai Cabrera, Jonathas Cristian De Jesus.
The squad includes six foreigners - Victor Mongil, Hector Rodas, Javi Hernandez, Aridai Cabrera, Liridon Krasniqi (AFC), and Jonathas De Jesus while seven youngsters - Lalhrezuala Sailung, Deven Sawhney, Thoiba Singh Moirangthem, Isak Vanlalruatfela, CVL Remtluanga, Akshunna Tyagi and Nikhil Raj have been classified as developmental players.
Odisha FC will play the opening match against Bengaluru FC on November 24 at Tilak Maidan, Vasco.
KERALA BLASTERS ANNOUNCED TWENTY EIGHT MEMBER SQUAD FOR ISL
2.11.21: Kerala Blasters FC officially announced their 28 members squad ahead of the 8th edition of Indian Super League 2021-22 at Goa. Kerala Blasters FC will play the opening match of the competetion against ATK Mohun Bagan on the 17th of November at Fatorda stadium.The footballers in the squad are:
GOALKEEPERS: Albino Gomes, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, Muheet Shabir, Sachin Suresh.
DEFENDERS: Sandeep Singh, Nishu Kumar, Abdul Hakku, Hormipam Ruivah, Bijoy V, Enes Sipovic, Marko Lešković, Denechandra Meitei, Sanjeev Stalin, Jessel Carneiro.
MIDFEILDERS: Jeakson Singh, Harmanjot Khabra, Ayush Adhikari, Givson Singh, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, Prashant K, Vincy Barretto, Sahal Abdul Samad, Seityasen Singh, Rahul K P, Adrian Luna.
STRIKERS: Chencho Gyeltshen, Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Álvaro Vázquez.
The squad consists of footballers like Jeakson Singh, Prabsukhan Gill, Sanjeev Stalin, Hormipam Ruivah, Givson Singh, Sachin Suresh, Muheet Khan, to fulfill the mandatory Development player’s criteria and Academy Players, Bijoy V and Sachin Suresh, who have followed the likes of Sahal Samad, Ayush Adhikari, Muheet Shabir and several others by earning senior-team promotions, will look to further continue their progress in Goa.
MERLIN GROUP TIED UP WITH RONALDINHO FOR THEIR FOOTBALL ACADEMY
26.10.21: Merlin group, one of the largest real estate company unveils it's coveted association with world famous sports icon in their themed sports township 'Merlin RISE - The Sports Republic' in the state of art academics in Football, Cricket, Swimming and MMX Matrix training centre. These academies are going to set up at Rajarhat in New Town, Kolkata which is adjacent to the airport and other important locations of Kolkata.The R10 Football academy of the Brazalian legend RONALDIHNO will be operational within next 5 months along with the Yubraj Singh centre of Exellence. R10 Academy has an exclusive training system and a Virtues Programme for boys and girls between the age group from 4-17 years in different location of the world.
The Sports City will have a state of art gymnasium with the updated uquipments, proper trainning and diet guidence along with the provisions of MMA Matrix and other modern facilities.
Speaking on the occasion Saket Mohta, MD of Merlin Group said,"The scouts will find out talents from the different parts of the country. The promising talents of the academy will be benefitted with a special package in due course. RISE with exellent facilities will attract the children in the playground."
SANTOSH TROPHY ZONAL ROUND TO START FROM 21ST NOVEMBER
25.10.21: 74th edition of the Santosh Trophy National Football Championship between all the states will start from 21st November.The teams from across India have been divided into groups across five zones – North Zone, West Zone, South Zone, East Zone, and the North-East Zone. The teams finishing at the top of their respective groups will then progress to the Final Round of the Santosh Trophy, which is set to take place in Kerala, later this year.
East Zone
Group A: Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar.
Fixtures:
December 1: Odisha vs Bihar, 2.30 PM IST, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
December 3: Bihar vs Jharkhand, 2.30 PM IST, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
December 5: Jharkhand vs Odisha, 2.30 PM IST, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
Group B: West Bengal, Sikkim, Chhattisgarh.
Fixtures:
November 21: Chhattisgarh vs West Bengal, 2.30 PM IST, Kalyani Municipal Stadium, Kalyani.
November 23: Sikkim vs Chhattisgarh, 2.30 PM IST, Kalyani Municipal Stadium, Kalyani.
November 25: West Bengal vs Sikkim, 2.30 PM IST, Kalyani Municipal Stadium, Kalyani.
North-East Zone
Group A: Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam.
Fixtures:
November 28: Assam vs Meghalaya, 2.30 PM IST, JLN Stadium, Shillong.
November 30: Arunachal Pradesh vs Assam, 2.30 PM IST, JLN Stadium, Shillong.
December 2: Meghalaya vs Arunachal Pradesh, 2.30 PM IST, JLN Stadium, Shillong.
Group B: Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland.
Fixtures:
November 28: Manipur vs Nagaland, 9.30 AM IST, Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.
November 28: Mizoram vs Tripura, 2.30 PM IST, Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.
November 30: Tripura vs Manipur, 9.30 AM IST, Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.
November 30: Nagaland vs Mizoram, 2.30 PM IST, Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.
December 2: Tripura vs Nagaland, 9.30 AM IST, Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.
December 2: Manipur vs Mizoram, 2.30 PM IST, Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.
North Zone
Group A: Chandigarh, Services, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh.
Fixtures:
November 21: Services vs Himachal Pradesh, 9.30 AM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 21: J&K; vs Chandigarh, 3 PM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 23: Chandigarh vs UP, 9.30 AM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 23: J&K; vs Services, 3 PM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 25: UP vs J&K;, 9.30 AM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 25: Himachal Pradesh vs Chandigarh, 3 PM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 27: Himachal Pradesh vs J&K;, 9.30 AM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 27: Services vs UP, 3 PM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 29: UP vs Himachal Pradesh, 9.30 AM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
November 29: Chandigarh vs Services, 3 PM IST, Sports Complex, Sector 7, Chandigarh.
Group B: Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand.
Fixtures:
December 1: Delhi vs Uttarakhand, 9.30 AM IST, JLN Stadium, New Delhi.
December 1: Punjab vs Haryana, 3 PM IST, JLN Stadium, New Delhi.
December 3: Haryana vs Delhi, 9.30 AM IST, JLN Stadium, New Delhi.
December 3: Uttarakhand vs Punjab, 3 PM IST, JLN Stadium, New Delhi.
December 5: Haryana vs Uttarakhand, 9.30 AM IST, JLN Stadium, New Delhi.
December 5: Delhi vs Punjab, 3 PM IST, JLN Stadium, New Delhi.
West Zone
Group A: Gujarat, Goa, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
Fixtures:
November 24: Gujarat vs D&N;, 9.30 AM IST, MK Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.
November 24: Goa vs D&D;, 3 PM IST, MK Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.
November 26: D&D; vs Gujarat, 9.30 AP IST, MK Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.
November 26: D&N; vs Goa, 3 PM IST, MK Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.
November 28: D&D; vs D&N;, 9.30 AM IST, MK Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.
November 28: Gujarat vs Goa, 3 PM IST, MK Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.
Group B: Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh.
Fixtures:
December 1: MP vs Rajasthan, 3 PM IST, Poornima University, Jaipur.
December 3: Maharashtra vs MP, 3 PM IST, Poornima University, Jaipur.
December 3: Rajasthan vs Maharashtra, 3 PM IST, Poornima University, Jaipur.
South Zone
Group A: Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu.
Fixtures:
November 23: Karnataka vs Tamil Nadu, 9.30 AM IST, BFS, Bengaluru.
November 23: Telangana vs Andhra Pradesh, 3 PM IST, BFS, Bengaluru.
November 25: Andhra Pradesh vs Karnataka, 9.30 AM IST, BFS, Bengaluru.
November 25: Tamil Nadu vs Telangana, 3 PM IST, BFS, Bengaluru.
November 27: Andhra Pradesh vs Tamil Nadu, 9.30 AM IST, BFS, Bengaluru.
November 27: Karnataka vs Telangana, 3 PM IST, BFS, Bengaluru.
ATK MOHUN BAGAN STARTS PRESEASON PRACTICE
21.10.21: The last years runners up ATK Mohun Bagan starts their pre-season practice for the upcoming Indian Super League from Thursday afternoon. The Spanish coach Antonio Habas and his coaching team reached the team hotel at Colava, Goa on Wednesday night.All the footballers except Deepak Tangri and Sumit Rathi reported at the team hotel at Colava. These two footballers are busy in the Indian camp for the U-23 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
The Mariners are practicing at the ground at Bambolin unlike last year. The ground was allotted by FSDL to ATK Mohun Bagan is quite good with all the modern facilities and flood light. The Spanish coach Antonio Habas concentrated on physical fitness of his team right from the beginning which will be followed by set pieces and situation practice.
ATK Mohun Bagan will play the inargual match of Indian Super League against Kerala Blasters FC.
MANALO DIAZ WANTS SC EAST BENGAL TO PLAY TACTICALLY
14.10.21: SC East Bengal to play two freindly matches against Vasco SC and former I-League champions Salgaocar FC at the Don Bosco ground, Goa. The matches will be played on Friday and Saturday respectively.These two freindlies are as part of their pre-season preparations and will start from 8 am.SC East Bengal starts their pre season training for the upcoming of the 8th edition of Indian super League from 13th October under the close eyes of Head Coach Manuel Manolo Diaz. In a discussion with the club's official website the 53 yersa old Spanish coach said, "I want to see all the players and see how they perform. At the same time, we want to see every player and also check if the squad is learning our ideas tactically and also adapting to the philosophy. After many practice sessions, the team is ready to play friendly games with the objective to improve and give players some game time."
Not only the head coach Manuel Diaz, his deputy Angel Puebla Garcia and the entire coaching team is keeping a close eye on the movements of the footballers during the practice session. While discussing the Head coach Diaz added, "We want the squad to gain confidence and also know how we want them to play football. It will help them understand our principles of play."
FIFA U-17 WOMEN'S WORLD CUP MASCOT RELEASED
11.10.21: On the International Day of the Girl Child, FIF unveiled an Asiatic lioness, known as Ibha, as the Official Mascot for the tournament to mark exactly one year to go until the tournament kicks off.Representing “Nari Shakti”, or women power, Ibha is a strong, playful and charming Asiatic lioness that aims to inspire and encourage women and girls by using teamwork, resilience, kindness and empowering others.
Asiatic lioness unveiled as official tournament mascot for FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup next year Representing “Nari Shakti”, Ibha aims to inspire women and girls across India and around the world to realise their potential.
One year to go until kick-off – the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2022™ will take place in India from 11-30 October.
One year to go until kick-off – the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2022™ will take place in India from 11-30 October
Speaking about today’s launch, Sarai Bareman, FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, said:
“Ibha is a really exciting and inspiring character, one that young fans across India and around the world will have huge fun enjoying and interacting with in the lead-up to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India next year.
“2022 is on course to be a hugely significant year for women’s football, with future stars of the game set to showcase their skills in India – just nine months before the FIFA Women’s World Cup kicks off in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Through the platform of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Ibha will play an important role in engaging with fans, as well as encouraging and inspiring more women and girls across India and beyond to take part and play the game.”
LOC Chairman Praful Patel added, “The launch of the Official Mascot Ibha is yet another significant milestone achieved on the road to hosting the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup India 2022. Ibha symbolises courage and strength, which are core qualities of every woman, while also embodying the vibrance and visionary spirit of the tournament.
The 7th edition of FIFA U-17 World Cup will be played at Kalinga Stadium Bhubaneswar, Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium Guwahati, EKA Arena Ahmedabad, Vivekananda Yubabharati Kriangan Kolkata and at D.Y.Patil stadium Navi Mumbai.
FSDL REALLOCATES INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE PRIZE MONEY
ISL PRESS RELEASE - 8.10.21: Football Sports Development today announced an increase in the prize money for Hero Indian Super League ‘Shield Winners’ by INR 3 Crore starting from the 2021-22 season.The League Winners Shield, introduced in the 2019-20 season conferred to the table toppers were earlier presented with a cash reward of INR 50 Lakhs since the last 2 seasons. As part of the ISL prize money reallocation, FSDL have now allocated a total of INR 3.5 Crore as cash reward for the League Winners in order to bring an equivalence in the prize money distribution across the five cash prize categories.
The League Winners are also rewarded with the highest honour to represent India in Asia's showpiece club football competition - the AFC Champions League. FC Goa were its inaugural winners in 2019-20. Mumbai City FC are its current holders, having completed the 'double' along with winning their maiden Hero ISL trophy in 2020-21.
The Hero ISL Champions, winner of the Final, will now be offered INR 6 Crore (previously INR 8 Cr), while the runners-up will get INR 3 Crore (previously INR 4 Cr). The other two semi-finalists will continue to receive INR 1.5 Crore each.
For calculations, here are three scenarios laid out for a club winning the League Shield:
As table toppers, the club is guaranteed INR 3.5 Crore.
As added incentive, if the club goes on to win the ISL Championship, they would stand to gain a total windfall of INR 9.5 Crore.
If finished as runners-up in the ISL final, the club would earn total of INR 6.5 Crore.
In case the table topper finishes 3rd or 4th in the knock out competition, the club would earn a minimum of INR 5 Crore.
The total prize money pool for ISL 2021-22 remains INR 15.5 Crore.
The eighth edition of ISL will start from the 19th of November at Goa.
DES BUCKINGHAM JOINS MUMBAI CITY AFTER SERGIO LOBERA STEP DOWN
8.10.21: The Indian Super League team Mumbai City FC announces the joining of Des Buckingham, as Head coach of the side for the upcoming season. Des Buckingham joins from CFG-owned A-League Champions Melbourne City FC on a two-year contract.Sergio Lobera will be stepping down as Head Coach to continue his coaching journey with City Football Group.Englishman Des Buckingham, joins from Melbourne City FC, where he was Assistant Coach to Patrick Kisnorbo, helping the Club towards winning the A-League Premiership and Championship double. He made a significant contribution both on and off the pitch, taking charge of the team on three occasions during the 2020/21 season in the absence of Kisnorbo, in which he had a perfect winning record.
Prior to joining Melbourne City, Des became the youngest coach in A-League history when he took charge of Wellington Phoenix at the age of 31, before a spell with Stoke City’s U-23 team. Des was also the Head Coach of New Zealand’s U-20 and U-23 teams as well the Assistant Coach to the All Whites’ First Team for a brief period. Highly acclaimed for his work with the New Zealand age group sides, Des led the New Zealand U-20s to the Round of 16 in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup before bowing out to Colombia in a penalty shootout. In light of his notable work in the country, Des was named Men’s Coach of the Year at the 2020 New Zealand Football Awards.
S GAUTAM SINGH JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
8.10.21: SC East Bengal signed S Gautam Singh as their third devolopement footballer after Lalrinliana Hnamte and Amarjit Kiyam.The cenntral defender S Gautam Singh is a product of East Bengal academy played for Hyderabad FC in the recently concluded Durand Cup.
UEFA EURO 2024 LOGO UNVEILED IN BERLIN
6.10.21: The brand identity for UEFA EURO 2024 was unveiled at 20:24CEST this evening at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany, where the tournament will be held across ten cities in under three years’ time.The tournament logo is derived from UEFA’s 55 member associations’ flags and their colours, which assemble in various combinations, reflecting the shape of the Olympiastadion roof. The famous Henri Delaunay Cup features at the centre of the logo, while the 24 coloured slices around the trophy represent the 24 participating teams of EURO.
The brand launch was attended by UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin, the interim president of the German Football Association (DFB), Rainer Koch, UEFA EURO 2024 tournament director Philipp Lahm, as well as the Governing Mayor of Berlin, the Lord Mayors of Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Gelsenkirchen and Stuttgart, representatives of the other host cities, high-level members of the German federal government and other invited guests. The event featured a spectacular light show which culminated in the unveiling of the UEFA EURO 2024 logo.
The slogan United by Football. further strengthens the message of unity, togetherness and inclusion. It is the same slogan as used in the bidding process and was selected together with the host cities. Additionally, each host city – Berlin, Cologne, Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Gelsenkirchen, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich and Stuttgart – selected a famous landmark to feature on their respective city logos.
he 51 matches of UEFA EURO 2024 will be held across ten host venues in Germany in June and July 2024. The full match schedule will be confirmed in early 2022.
SC EAST BENGAL APPOINTS MRIDUL BANERJEE AS TEAM MANAGER
28.9.21: Mridul Kanti Banerjee joins SC East Bengal as the team manager for the upcoming eighth edition of Indian Super League. He will also act as second Assistant of the team after Renedy Singh. Mridul Banerjee worked as Assistant coach for Delhi Dynamos in 2018-19 in Indian Super League.The AFC A liecnce coach Mridul Banerjee have had the experience of coaching in different Indian clubs since last three decades. Mridul Banerjee worked with Kolkata gaints Mohun Bagan, Md Sporting and few days with East Bengal. Md Sporting finished second in CFL in 2016 under his guidance. He had the experience of working in Indian Arrows as well as in Indian U-16 and U-19 national team.
Mridul Banerjee was responsible for Bengal's Santosh Trophy winning in successive years 2001 and 2002.
SC East Bengal will shortly reach Goa for the preparation of Indian Super League.
MUMBAI CITY FC SIGNED GOALKEEPER MOHAMMAD NAWAZ
26.9.21: Mumbai City FC announced the arrival of goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz. The 21-year-old joins the defending ISL champions on a three-year contract until May 2024.AIFF Elite Academy product, Nawaz secured a move to FC Goa in 2018, where he featured for the club’s reserve team in the I-League 2nd Division and was later handed his first team debut during the 2018-19 campaign.
Having played an instrumental role in the FC Goa’s successful campaigns in 2018-19 and 2019-20, winning the Super Cup and the League Winners’ Shield, the 21-year-old custodian became a pivotal member of Gaurs’ set up. He recorded as many as nine clean sheets in 33 appearances in his first two seasons with the Goan side.
The Manipur-born player, who represented India at the 2016 BRICS U-17 tournament, made 10 appearances for FC Goa in the 2020-21 season in their run to the semifinals.
Mohammad Nawaz said: “I would like to thank Mumbai City FC for showing faith in me and giving me the opportunity to play at a club that wants to win games and win trophies. I had a chance to speak to many of my friends who are now my teammates and they spoke highly of the great culture at the club. I’m looking forward to getting started on this exciting journey with my new family and achieve great things along the way.”
IGOR STIMAC ANNOUNCED 23 MEMBER TEAM FOR SAFF CUP
26.9.21: Indian National Team Head Coach Igor Stimac has named a list of 23 players for the forthcoming SAFF Championship which kicks off in the Maldives from October 1 onwards.The list of 23 probables is as follows:
GOALKEEPERS: Gurpreet Singh, Amrinder Singh, Vishal Kaith.
DEFENDERS: Pritam Kotal, Seriton Fernandes, Chinglensana Singh, Rahul Bheke, Subhasish Bose, Mandar Rao Dessai.
MIDFIELDERS: Udanta Singh, Brandon Fernandes, Lalengmawia, Anirudh Thapa, Sahal Abdul Samad, Jeakson Singh, Glan Martins, Suresh Singh, Liston Colaco, Yasir Mohammad.
FORWARDS: Manvir Singh, Rahim Ali, Sunil Chhetri, Farukh Choudhary.
India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the hosts Maldives are the other teams in the Championship. Each team plays each other once with the top two teams qualifying for the final.
India’s fixtures in the group stage:
October 4: Bangladesh vs India (IST 4.30pm).
October 7: India vs Sri Lanka (IST 4.30pm).
October 10: Nepal vs India (IST 8.30pm).
October 13: India vs Maldives (IST 8.30pm).
India have won the SAFF Championship (formerly SAARC Cup) 7 times – 1993 in Lahore, 1997 in Kathmandu, 1999 in Margao, 2005 in Karachi, 2009 (U23 squad) in Dhaka, 2011 in New Delhi), 2015-16 in Thiruvananthapuram.
FORMER CHELSEA GOALKEEPING COACH JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
26.9.21: SC East Bengal rope in former goalkeeping coach of Chelsea, Leslie Cleevely for the upcoming 8th edotion of Indian Super League at Goa.Leslie Cleevely is a UEFA A lisence coach had the experience of working in Bangladesh national team last season replacing Bobby Mimms. Bobby Mimms were the goalkeeping coach of SC East Bengal last year under Robby Fowler.
Leslie Cleevely Worked with Edwin Van Der Sar and Maik Taylor at Fulham FC and at Crystal Palace. He worked at Tottenham Hotspur as a goalkeeper coach of the academy and joined Chelsea in 2007 where he worked for four years in the academy as well as in the senior team.
FORMER REAL MADRID COACH JOINS SC EAST BENGAL AS ASSISTANT COACH
24.9.21: Ángel Puebla Garcia, the former Real Madrid coach joins SC East Bengal as Assistant and Fitness coach for the upcoming Indian Super League. He will work as the deputy of the Head coach Manuel Diaz. This was announced by SC East Bengal in a Press note.Angel Gracia has a great career, he worked in the first team of Real Madrid with Vincente del Bosque. He also worked with Rafa Benitez in Real Valladolid and returned to Real Madrid to continue his career in the Real Madrid 'B' and 'C' for six years.
Angel Gracia was the Chief Executive of Real Valladolid Academy and Kimberly Collage of Football Academy in Brisbrane. He has the experience also in Champions League for Valancia with Quique Sanches Flores and in the national team with Hector Cuper in Georgia. A UEFA Pro Lisense holder Angel Gracia has several degrees in sports science, fitness and conditioning is a methodic strength and fitness coach .
Angelo Gracia is reckoned as the 'man of trust' for many top coaches and has dealth with players of all levels.
Renedy Singh, who worked as a Assistant coach with Robbie Fowler will continue to work as assistant coach of SC East Bengal with Manual Diaz.
BRAZALIAN STRIKER YGOR CATATAU JOINS MUMBAI CITY FC
24.9.21: Mumbai City FC in a Press Release confirms the joining of the Brazilian forward Ygor Catatau on a season-long loan from Brazilian side Madureira Esporte Clube.In March 2021, the 26-year-old player was loaned to Série B side EC Vitoria, where he made 27 appearances for the club and scored three goals, including one assist to his name. Catatau's move to Mumbai City FC will be his first experience playing outside of his native Brazil.
The Brazilian striker started his professional career with Madureira before making the jump to the first team in 2015 and was loaned out to clubs like Barra da Tijuca and Boa Esporte in his initial years. Catatau then signed on a one-season loan deal with CR Vasco da Gama, where he featured in the Brasileiro Série A and Copa do Brasil during the 2020/21 season.
CROATIAN STRIKER ANTONIO PEROSEVIC JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
23.9.21: SC East Bengal confirms the signing of 29 years old Croatia forward Antonio Perosevic on a one-year deal. Antonio is the 6th overseas recruit of SC East Bengal who signed for the club to play the eigth edition of Indian Super League.The Croatian international Antonio Perosevic joined SC East Bengal from Ujpest FC, a top division club of Hungray. He played two matches for the Croatian senior national team in the year 2017 apart from the U-18 and U-20 national team.
In an interview with the SC East Bengal media Antonio Perosevic said, "I have had a good conversation with the management and I am really looking forward to the new adventure. I am looking forward to meeting the coaching staff and all my teammates. I have also heard about the big derby against ATK Mohun Bagan, and that kind of games further motivates a player."
SC East Bengal will start their preparation for the ISL in the first week of October as the Head coach Manolo’ Diaz and his supporting team are likely to reach Goa at the end of September.
KEY STRIKER OF FC NASAF ONCE A TEAM MATE OF ROY KRISHNA
20.9.21: Andrija Kaluderovic is a Serbian footballer, one of the key striker of FC Nasaf, had a vast experience of playing in the clubs of Europe and Asia.Kaluderovic was the team mate of ATK Mohun Bagan's Fijian star Roy Krishna in A League club Brisbane Roar is now set to share a football pitch once again. But, this time against each other in Qarshi, a small city in southern Uzbekistan which lies around 80 kilometres from the border of Turkmenistan in the AFC cup interzonal semifinal.
Andrija Kaluderovic have had the experience of Indian football as he played 12 matces for Delhi Dynamos(Now Odisha FC) in Indian Super League and scored a goal.
In an Interview with AFC, the Serbian striker Andrija Kaluderovic said, “It is really unusual. Krishan is from Fiji, I am from Serbia. That’s a long distance by itself.We played together in New Zealand, and now after four years we are playing against each other in Uzbekistan, with him playing in an Indian team and me in an Uzbek team. It will be nice to see him and talk to him. Krishna is a very good player.”
Regarding his experience playing with Krishna the Serbian striker said, “At the time I was the striker, and Krishna was our right winger,”He played very well in that position, and we played well together. He made some assists for me. He’s one of the fastest players, maybe the fastest, that I have ever played with in my career, and now late in his career he’s found a good place and he is thriving. I am really happy for him.”
Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan reached Uzbekistan two hours later than the scheduled time on Sunday night due to the flight delay. The match will be played at Quarshi stadium is more than 500 kilometres away from Tashkent.
INDIAN FOOTBALL TRANSFER NEWS/ DAILY NEWS ( 2021)
ATK MOHUN BAGAN ARE UTILISING MODERN INFRA STRUCTURE TO CREATE HISTORY AT UZBEKISTAN
18.9.21: ATK Mohun Bagan are preparing at Dubai for the important high voltage match against FC Nasaf for the AFC Cup inter zonal semifinal at Uzbekistan.As Uzbekistan is much higher in FIFA ranking, the Spanish coach Antonio Habas is not only applying the variations in practice like set pieces, penalty shoot outs and attacking through the wings. The Spanish coach has given special instruction to physical trainers to improve the physical fitness of the footballers. The physical trainers are utilising the modern and best infra structure of Dubai for the last six days. They are utilising the various equipment in the gymnasium along with swimming to improve the fitness level to the maximum level so that the footballers can play in equal rhythm for 120 minutes against the strong Uzbekistan side. To win against FC Nasaf footballers have to go beyond their limit.
'We Will Win' is now the only word and mentality transmitted to the ATK Mohun Bagan brigade at the Dubai camp. Though victory is tough against FC Nasaf but the Mariners are dedicated to create history in the inter regional semi finals of the AFC Cup.
DUTCH MIDFEILDER DARREN SIDOEL JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
17.9.21: SC East Bengal confirms the signing of Dutch defensive midfielder Darren Sidoel on a one year deal for the upcoming 8th edition of Indian Super League.Darren Sidoel joined SC East Bengal from Spanish second division club Córdoba CF, having played last season on loan at Hércules.
The 23 years old defensive midfielder started his career with ADO Den Haag in the Netherlands before joining Ajax in 2012. Sidoel played for English side Reading and Bulgarian top division side FC Arda Kardzhali before being snapped up by Cordoba in 2020.
Darren Sidoel represented Holland's U-15, U-16, U-17 team.
HABAS DECLARED THE SQUAD AGAINST FC NASAF
17.9.21: The head coach of ATK Mohun Bagan Antonio Lopez Habas finalised the twenty two member squad for the match against FC Nasaf for the AFC Cup Inter-Regional Semi-Final at Uzbekistan.After a series of practice session at Dubai, the team was declared. The selected footballers are:
GOALKEEPER: Amrinder Singh, Avilash Paul, Arsh Anwer.
DEFENDER: Pritam Kotal, Ashutosh Mehta, Carl McHugh, Subhasish Bose, Sumit Rathi
MIDFEILDER: Medio-Joni Kauko, Lenny Rodrigues, Liston Colaco, Prabir Das, Soosai Raj, Bidyananda Singh, Engson Singh, Sekh Sahil, Ravi Bahadur Rana, Abhishek Dhananjay
FORWARD: Forward-Roy Krishna, David Williams, Manvir Singh, Kiyan Nassiri
Prabir Das, Michel Soosai Raj and Joni Kauko, who has just played in the recently concluded Euro Cup are included in the squad against FC Nasaf. It is a testing time for Joni Kauko who will be playing the first match for Mariners, while Hugo Boumous are not included in the squad.
IT WIIL BE A MAJOR ACHIVEMENT IF WE QUALIFY FOR THE NEXT STAGE: ROY KRISHNA
17.9.21: The ace striker of ATK Mohun Bagan, Roy Krishna said that it will be a really tough match against FC Nasaf in the AFC Cup Inter-Regional Semi-Final in Uzbekistan. He and his teammates is preparing for the challange.
In a conversatation with the ATK Mohun Bagan media in the preparatory camp at Dubai, Roy Krishna said, "I think my biggest lesson is not to underestimate any team making it this far and also to focus on one match at a time. We are playing with the best from the division groups so they are coming fully prepared.We had only assembled for a couple of weeks due to travel restrictions when we headed to the Maldives, so it was a good learning opportunity. Most of us couldn’t get together because of restrictions in our own countries that didn’t allow us to travel outside of the country and it took a long time to convince the authorities which meant we only had a week or so to train. But now it’s been over a month so we’ve had some good training and our fitness levels are up."
While answering regarding his oppornant FC Nasaf the Fijian striker said, "It’s going to be a tough match but we are preparing ourselves as much as possible to take on the challenge. The club needs to win the next match to progress to the next stage. For me personally, it would be a major achievement if we can go all the way, so I’m confident that we will be able to come away with a win despite them having the home advantage. Overall, it’s going to be a difficult match because they have some good foreign players and also they have already started their league, which means they’ve had at least a few months of training under their belt by the time we have our match. Competing with a well-trained team like them would be a challenge, but we are preparing as much as we can to win this. We are going to Uzbekistan to give our all."
Regarding the motivation of his team's motivation just before the important match of AFC Cup Roy Krishna added, My motive is mainly to help the team win and if I get the chance to score, I will score. If I can assist another team player, I will do the same. The ultimate goal is to help the team win, even if it means defending at times to protect our own goalmouth. we have a strong midfield and defence and they will be helping us control and keep the ball and at the same time provide opportunities to score.
ATK Mohun Bagan will play against FC Nasaf on 22nd of September at Uzbekistan.
NIGERIAN STRIKER DANIEL CHIMA SIGNS A DEAL WITH SC EAST BENGAL
16.9.21: SC East Bengal confirme the joining of Nigerian Striker Daniel Chima Chukwu as their forth foreign footballer who will participate in the eighth edition of Indian Super League.
The 30 years old Nigerian striker joined SC East Bengal from Chinese club Taizhou Yuanda after completing a two years contract.
Chima was an important member of the top club Norway Molde FK where he played from 2010-15 and from 2018-20. Molde FK won three league tittles in 2011,2012 and 2014 and Norwegian Cup 2013 and 2014. Chima scored 94 goals in 118 matches he played for Molde FK.
Chima played 9 matches for Polish club Legia Warsaw which includes EUFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League qualifiers.
After joining in SC East Bengal, the Nigerian striker said, “I have won titles in Norway and worked with some of the best coaches in the business. I will look to use my experience and help my teammates get better. I am also looking forward to working with our coaching staff. I was looking for a new challenge, and India excited me. The Indian Super League is growing, and I thought it would be the right move."
FORMER LAZIO CENTRAL DEFENDER FRANJO PRCE JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
15.9.21: SC East Bengal confirms the signing of the Croatian central defender Franjo Prce for the upcoming 8th edition of Indian Super League.
This is SC East Bengal's third overseas footballer who joined the club on one year deal.Franjo Prce is a 25 years old footballer who signed after midfeilder Amir Dervisevic and central defender Tomislav Mrcela. Franjo joined SC East Bengal from the Croatian Club NK Slaven Belupo
Franjo Prce played for Italian Serie A side Lazio’s youth team between 2014-15 and graduated to their first team in 2016, making his debut against Torino in the top division. He was with Lazio till 2018, enjoying loan spells with Brescia and U.S. Salernitana during that period. Prce moved to Croatian club Istra 1961 again on a loan deal before shifting base to Cyprus where he turned out for AC Omonia. Prce also had spells with FC Karpaty Lviv in Ukraine besides playing for NK Varaždin and NK Slaven Belupo at home in Croatia.
Franjo had an experience of playing in Croatian U-16,U-17,U-18,U-19,U-21 national team, but yet to represent in Croatian Senior National Team.
SC EAST BENGAL SIGNS A LEAGUE DEFENDER TOMISLAV MRCELA
14.9.21: SC East Bengal confirmed the signing of their second overseas footballer as TOMISLAC MRCELA for the upcoming Indian Super League 2021-22 season. The central defender Tomislav is a former Perth Glory defender and Australian center-back.
Tomislav had joined Perth Glory in 2018 on a two-year contract and won A-League premiership.
The Australia born 6-foot 4 inches tall, defender Tomislav,joined the youth academy of Dalmatian side RNK Split in 2001 in Croatia. After spending eight years at RNK Split he joined Jadran Kaštel, the third division side in Croatia at the time. He later played for NK Primorac 1929,NK Imotski, NK Imotski, NK Mosor and NK Hrvatski Dragovoljac. Tomislav was named in a 23-man squad for Australia before two 2018 World Cup qualifying matches against Kyrgyzstan.
After signing for SC East Bengal, in a interview Tomislav said, I’m happy to have signed for SC East Bengal, and I have got good feedback about the club. I have friends who have played in India and also know a thing or two about the club, and they tell me how big it is in this part of the world. I will look to add experience at the heart of the defence and take care of the locker room as well. The atmosphere within the team is very important and I will leave no stone unturned in doing what needs to be done for the team’s benefit. I also know how passionate the fans are here and it’s unfortunate that they can’t be in the stands cheering us. We play for them and we will do everything we can to make them happy. I can’t wait to start the season.”
SC East Bengal will soon announce the signing of other overseas footballers within a short time.
JAMSHEDPUR FC SIGNED GREG STEWART
12.09.21: Jamshedpur FC completed the signing of Scottish Premiership champion Greg Stewart. Stewart played for Rangers which finished last season unbeaten.
Playing under Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, he played with the likes of Jermaine Defoe, Glen Kamara, Morelos and Itten. The midfielder has made a total of 355 club appearances in his career.
“I am so excited to see what this season has in store for us. It's a new adventure for me and one I am really looking forward to. It's going to be an amazing experience to work under Owen Coyle and give everything on the pitch to get silverware for Jamshedpur. Just can't wait to get started,” Stewart said.
Jamshedpur FC Head Coach Owen Coyle said, “We were looking for a versatile and creative midfielder in the market to complete a menacing group of attacking players for our squad. Greg fit into that criterion perfectly. He comes with exemplary experience of playing in the biggest leagues across the UK. And of course, he had an amazing opportunity to play for one of the Glasgow giants which shows he has a strong and winning mentality. The fans can expect a lot of chances to score goals from Jamshedpur this season.”
FC NASAF IS A STRONG OPPORNENT FOR ATK MOHUN BAGAN
11.9.21: ATK Mohun Bagan starts their final preparation at Dubai for the inter zonal semifinal match against Uzbekistan side FC Nasaf after being placed at the top of the Group League from south zone. FC Nasaf defeated Ahal FC of Turkmenistan from Group F, by a margin of 3-2 before the face ATK Mohun Bagan on the 22nd of September.
The Head coach of the Mariners, Antonio Habas divided the ten days practice sessions in two parts. The first six days practice of ATK Mohun Bagan are at Dubai and the final and last four days practice will be at Uzbekistan before the match to cope up with the conditions . The final squad will be decided after the ten days sessions. The footballers who were in the squad at Maldives and the two overseas footballers, defender Tiri and midfielder Jonny Kauko are under the close eyes of the Spanish coach, preparing for the important match. It is quite evident that Antonio Habas are in a target to build up a strong team for the match against Nasaf FC.
Antonio Habas is concentrating on different formations and improving the physical conditions of the footballers. While talking to club media the Spanish coach, Antonio Habas said, " The match against Nasaf FC is the most important for us and for the supporters of ATK Mohun Bagan. We are ready to give our best and we are preparing for the match. Our task will be tough because our oppornant is strong and tough."
In fact FC Nasaf prove to be a strong oppornant for ATK Mohun Bagan. The runners up in Uzbekistan Premier League in 2019-20 have made six appearances in the AFC Champions League and three appreance in AFC Cup in the last nine years . FC Nasaf were the champions of AFC cup in the year 2011.
SLOVENIAN MIDFEILDER AMIR DERVISEVIC JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
11.9.21: SC East Bengal announces the signing of their first overseas footballer. The club has confirmed the signing of Slovenian midfielder AMIR DERVISEVIC for the up coming Indian Super League.
After signing the Indian footballers and confirming the joining of Manual Diaz as new Head coach , SC East Bengal are in the process of finalising the overseas footballers. Amir was playing for Slovenian professional football club Nogometni Klub Maribor before he joined the Indian club. The 29 years old midfeilder played for Slovenia U-19, U-21 and six matches in senior national team.
MANUAL DIAZ JOINED SC EAST BENGAL AFTER ROBBIE FOWLER MUTUALLY PARTED AWAY
8.9.21: SC East Bengal officially announces the joining of JOSE MANUEL DIAZ as the Head coach for the 8th edition of Indian Super League which will going to commence on November 2021.
Earlier, in a press statement SC East Bengal stated that club has agreed for a mutual termination of contract with British coach and Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler. SC East Bengal wished Robbie Fowler all the best for his future. Robbie Fowler was the Head coach in the SC East Bengal's maiden appreance in Indian Super League.SC East Bengal finished 9th in the League table.
The Spanish coach, Manual Diaz was an experienced man had an experience of more than twenty years. The 53 years old coach had worked with Real Madrid C.F. quite successfully. Manual Diaz had a winning rate of 41.77 percent in 328 matches in last two decades. Manual Diaz's latest worked with Real Madrid Reserve team during the 2018-19 season.
MANUAL DIAZ MANAGERIAL STATISTICS:
TOTAL MATCHES: 328
WIN: 137 (41.77%)
DRAWN: 83
LOST: 108
After joining SC East Bengal Manual Diaz said, " In Madrid we say WINNING IS OUR DNA. We love the pressure and expectation that comes with coaching a big club. Time is short and there is a long and difficult road ahead. But we will do our best to deliver good performances for all SC East Bengal fans."
PRONAY JOINS JAMSHEDPUR FC AS A LOAN FOOTBALLER
8.9.21: Indian international midfielder Pranoy Halder joins Jamshedpur FC as a loan footballer from ATK Mohun Bagan for the year 2021-22.
A product of the Tata Footabll Academy 28-year-old footballer Pranay made his senior debut with the erstwhile AIFF developmental side Pailan Arrows after coming through the Tata Football Academy. Later, Halder joined Dempo and also represented FC Goa in the Hero ISL in the same season. He won his first silverware after joining Mohun Bagan in 2015-16 as the Mariners lifted the Federation Cup.
JORDAN MURRAY SIGNS FOR JAMSHEDPUR FC
7.9.21: Jamshedpur FC completed the signing of Australian forward and former Kerala Blaster FC star player, Jordan Murray, signing a deal with him till 2022.
Owen Coyle is ecstatic about the adding more power to the team’s attacking line-up, the Aussie forward is equally thrilled about the starting this new journey.
Jordan Murray played for Kerala Blasters FC in the year 2020-21, scored 8 goals in 19 matches.
BRAD INMAN JOINS MUMBAI CITY FC
7.9.21: Mumbai City FC announce the signing of midfielder Bradden Inman. The Australian midfielder joins the defending ISL Champions on a season-long contract until May 2022. After the conclusion of the ISL 2020/21 season, Inman signed a short-term deal with the A-League club Western United, where he made five appearances for them.
The 29-year-old midfielder joined the fellow ISL side ATK Mohun Bagan ahead of the 2020-21 campaign and was loaned out to Odisha FC during the January transfer window. He made a total of 13 appearances in the ISL 2020-21 season, registering a goal and two assists to his name.
The Head Coach of Mumbai City FC Sergio Lobera said, "We are delighted to have an experienced player like Bradden with us at Mumbai City. He's a quality player, and he is someone who will strengthen our attacking unit. His strong play-making skills will bring a lot of intensity and energy into the side. I am looking forward to working with him, and I am eager to see him make a difference for us on the pitch."
ARINDAM BHATTACHARJEE JOINS SC EAST BENGAL
6.9.21: SC East Bengal finally wins the race when they signed goal keeper Arindam Bhattacharjee in their favour for the up coming season. The agreement will last for a year which is likely to be extended. Arindam Bhattacharjee, the winner of the GOLDEN GLOVES in the recently concluded Indian Super League, was released by ATK Mohun Bagan after a mutual concent.
The other ISL clubs Kerala Blaster FC and Mumbai City FC are on the run to include Arindam in their squad. But after a series of discussion on Monday morning Aridam finally agreed and signed for the Red and Gold.
In a video interview with SC East Bengal media Arindam said, "My family members specially my father and grand father were the supporters of East Bengal. Although I was playing for last sixteen years but I never played for East Bengal before. I am happy with the offer and decided to sign for SC East Bengal. I will start winning games for SC East Bengal."
The footballers who signed for SC East Bengal till date are:
GOALKEEPER : Arindam Bhattacharjee, Sankar Roy, Suvam Sen, Mirshad Michu.
DEFENDERS: Sarineo Fernandez, Ankit Mukherjee, Hira Mondal, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Adil Amhed Khan, Raju Eknath Gaikwad,Joyner Lourenco, Asheer Aktar, Daniel Gomes.
MIDFEILDERS: Sourav das, Amarjit Singh Kiyam, Angousana Luwang, Md Rafiq, Bikask Jairu, Loken Metai, Jackeichad Singh, Romeo fernandez, Songpu Singsit, Naorem Mahesh
STRIKERS: Semboi Haokip, Subho Ghosh.
A product of TATA FOOTBALL ACADEMY, played 252 matches for Churchill Brothers between 2007-2012 and on 2013-14. Arindam is an experienced goalkeeper in Indian football played for Pune City FC, Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan, Sporting Clube,ATK, Mumbai City FC and ATK Mohun Bagan.
FC BENGALURU UNITED FIVE YOUNG PROMOSING PLAYERS FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON
3.9.21: FC Bengaluru United have confirmed the signing of young upcoming players Yumnam Gopi Singh, Kynsailang Khongsit, Shelton Paul, Melroy Fernandes and Nihal Colaco. FCBU will kick off their domestic campaign with the maidan appearances in 130th Durand Cup from 5th September, 2021 at Kolkata.
Yumnam Gopi Singh is a 22-year-old Manipuri footballer who plays as a left-sided midfielder. A versatile athlete, Singh has also often been fielded centrally as an attacking midfielder. After beginning his career in the I-League at Neroca FC, Singh joined ISL side ATK, where he played primarily for the reserve team. He finally got his chance to play in the ISL in the 2020-21 season with East Bengal.
“I am looking forward to giving my best and helping FC Bengaluru United qualify for the I-League,” said Singh.
20 year old defender Kynsailang Khongsit hails from Shillong, where he came through the ranks of hometown club Royal Wahingdoh FC. After spending a considerable part of his youth career there, Khongsit moved to Shillong Lajong in the summer of 2017. Khongsit racked up 22 appearances in the I-League for Shillong Lajong over his two seasons at the club.
“FC Bengaluru United has a mix of experienced and young players and I can learn a lot from being part of a set up,” said Khongsit. “This experience will help me be a better player in the future.”
Melroy Fernandes, who has played for prominent Goa clubs in the Goa Pro League and I-League over the last decade, joins as the third goalkeeper in the squad. Rounding up the new signings are local boys Shelton Paul, a winger, and striker Nihal Colaco, who is making a comeback to the squad, following his recovery from injury.
Speaking about the new recruits Richard Hood, Head Coach, said, "Gopi and Khongsit share the same flank and have had similar pathways of gaining minutes and building their relevance in the I-league and ISL before making their way to us. Technically sound and a tremendous capacity to play intense football for 90 minutes means they bring in the qualities that complement our style of play in the wide areas of the pitch."
GOKULAM KERALA FC HAVE SIGNED CHISOM ELVIS CHIKATARA
3.9.21: Gokulam Kerala FC have signed Chisom Elvis Chikatara, a 26-year-old Nigerian striker for the upcoming season. A prolific striker, he has represented the Nigerian national team and has been playing for top-flight clubs in countries such as Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, Bahrain, and Iraq.
Elvis started his football journey at the age of seven and after his academy years, he joined Abia Warriors FC. He helped the club to get into the Nigerian Premier League.
He spent four years in the club, scoring 58 goals in 71 matches. He also represented the Nigerian National team in 2016 in the African Nations Championship and scored a hat-trick against Niger.
After his stint at Abia Warriors FC, he represented Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca, Egyptian club El Gouna, Bahraini club Al-Shabab Club and Iraqi club Naft Maysan.Elvis is a quick and agile right-footed striker who has good space and finishing ability
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC CONFIRMED TWO FOREIGNERS
2.9.21: Roundglass Punjab FC confirmed the signing of English forward Kurtis Owen Gurthie and defender John Johnson for the upcoming season.
John Johnson is a known face in Indian Football, as he played for various clubs in Indian Football since 2013-14 season. He played 5 seasons for Bengaluru FC, during that time he won I-League and Federation Cup. Later he joined ATK and also continue till last season with ATK Mohun Bagan and also won ISL with ATK. Ha made 64 appearances in I-League and 33 appearances in ISL. He also played Super Cup and AFC Cup.
English forward Kurtis Gurthie will be coming to India first time. He played for various League 2 side including Port Vale, Bradford City, Stevenage, Colchester United. He made 13 appearances in historic FA Cup where he scored 2 goals.
JAMSHEDPUR FC CONFIRMED THE SIGNING OF ISHAN PANDITA
2.9.21: Jamshedpur FC signed Ishan Pandita on a transfer from FC Goa on a 2 year's deal until May 2023.
In his debut Indian Super League season he scored 4 goals in 11 matches. His brilliant performance earned him a call-up to the Indian National Team and he made his debut against Oman in March 2021.
Pandita said, “I’m extremely excited to be joining Jamshedpur. I feel this is the perfect place for me right now to grow and develop with the help of Owen Coyle and the unwavering support of Jamshedpur's fantastic fans. I can't wait to get on the field and put on that red jersey of Jamshedpur.”
Jamshedpur Head Coach Owen Coyle was delighted to get the young striker. “Ishan had a fantastic season and is now an Indian International player. He was wanted by several clubs, and we are delighted to welcome him to Jamshedpur and fulfill his hunger to score goals. The fans can look forward to a repeat of his heroics from last season and more, with consistent playing opportunities. His addition emphasises our belief in young Indian players who will have solid opportunities with us to showcase their talent and perform,” he said.
ODISHA FC ANNOUNCES THE TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIP WITH PREMIER LEAGUE CLUB WATFORD FC
1.9.21: Indian Super League club, Odisha FC announce the signing of a three-year historic International Club Partnership with Watford FC, a club of England’s Premier League. This association will be mutually beneficial for both the regions where the clubs operate and will cover different footballing and non-footballing aspects.
This partnership will play an important role in the development of the footballing eco-system in Odisha as coaches from Watford will help Odisha FC set up youth systems and players from Odisha FC's Elite Youth team will get an opportunity to train with Watford's first team and/or academy team.
Watford and Odisha FC will support each other in their respective youth systems including scouting and training of young footballers and along with that, they will collaborate and promote different grassroots programs as well. The clubs will also work together for the development of women's football in the State and across India and friendly matches will be organised between their women's teams.
In addition to that, the Bhubaneswar-based side will have an opportunity to travel and train at Watford as a part of the pre-season training and will also play friendly matches in England. Both the clubs will cooperate with each other in the selection of players, the appointment of coaching and support staff, improving tactical and technical aspects of the game among others for the respective first teams. OFC and Watford will also share ideas in terms of marketing and social media visibility which will help in popularizing the sport and enhance the fanbase in the region.
While talking about the partnership, Odisha FC's Club President Mr. Raj Athwal said, "We are excited and proud to announce a unique partnership with English Premier League club Watford FC. With both clubs looking to grow their brands globally, the partnership provides a unique platform to not only share best practices in all areas of our club but enhance the development of future players. We are excited at the prospect of working with Watford FC’s coaches with a view to establishing a residential academy in Odisha, providing a conveyer belt of footballers who will one day proudly adorn the club colours and, as part of their development, have the opportunity to train at Watford’s esteemed academy too."
Watford FC’s Commercial Director Mr. Paul O’Brien said of the partnership, “This is something really quite different and we love to get involved in new things that provide really different experiences for the club and our staff. Partnering with Odisha FC gives us a chance to get a real insight into football’s global appeal and affords us a great chance to share learnings with a similarly ambitious club. "
MUMBAI CITY FC SIGNED NAOCHA SINGH
01.09.21: Mumbai City FC announced the arrival of defender Huidrom Naocha Singh on a three-year contract until May 2024.
The 22-year-old started his career through NEROCA FC’s youth set up and went on to play for TRAU FC before returning to NEROCA to feature in the 2018-19 I League. The Manipuri defender signed for Gokulam Kerala FC ahead of the 2019-20 campaign and was instrumental in their successful 2019 Durand Cup campaign. Naocha played every single minute in the tournament and also provided an assist for Gokulam Kerala’s winner in the final against Mohun Bagan. Naocha played all 15 games of Gokulam Kerala FC without missing a minute in the 2020-21 I League title-winning campaign and displayed impressive performances on both sides of the defence.
Naocha Singh said, “Making the step up to the ISL is something I have been working hard towards and joining the defending champions Mumbai City FC is nothing short of a dream. The last two years of my career were very special indeed and while I got to be a part of a successful team at Gokulam Kerala, I want to do well and win silverware in the Indian Super League. I am excited to be here with Mumbai City and I hope to grow along this journey and make great memories with my new family and my new club.”
Head Coach, Sergio Lobera, “Naocha has shown his abilities in the I-League and previously, in the Durand Cup. He is a tough defender with great quality and we are very happy to have him with us at Mumbai City FC. He has tasted success at such an early stage in his career but we firmly believe that as a footballer, Naocha can get only better. We are excited to provide Naocha the platform and the support for him to go on and become an important player for Mumbai City.” "
FC BENGALURU UNITED CONFIRMED FOUR NEW SIGNINGS
01.09.21: BDFA Super Division champions FC Bengaluru United (FCBU) have signed four new players - defenders Kinshuk Debnath, Dharmaraj Ravanan, Thokchom James Singh and George D’Souza for the upcoming season.
36-year-old right fullback Kinshuk Debnath is a seasoned campaigner with notable big match experience during his stints with Mohun Bagan, Mohammedan SC, East Bengal and Atletico de Kolkata. Debnath has spent the bulk of his professional career representing Kolkata clubs, and will likely play a key role for the Bengaluru outfit during their 2021 Durand Cup campaign, which will be held in Kolkata from 5th September. “I am happy to be part of the FC Bengaluru United team,” said Debnath. “I would love to play a role to help promote the team this season with my playing experience.”
Centre back Dharmaraj Ravanan is another player who will add experience and championship winning know-how to the FCBU squad. The 34-year-old defender from Tamil Nadu is a veteran of 138 I-League appearances, and a two-time winner of the Durand Cup with Mahindra United and Churchill Brothers. He has also led the Goan club to the I-League (2013) and Federation Cup (2014) titles as their Captain. Ravanan’s addition will shore up the heart of the FCBU defence. “I would like to bring all my experience, my winning mentality and try to guide the younger players at FC Bengaluru United,” said Ravanan. “It was an easy decision for me to join – the club is very professional and takes great care of their players.”
FCBU have also added 21-year-old Manipuri centre back Thokchom James Singh, who joins the club on a free transfer from I-League side TRAU FC. The young defender played for Neroca FC at youth level, before going on to represent Sagolband United and TRAU FC.
Rounding up the list of new signings in defence is 27-year-old left fullback George D’Souza, who joins FCBU on a loan deal from ISL side Odisha FC. A dead ball specialist with natural attacking instincts, the versatile left back was often deployed further up the pitch as an out and out winger for Goa Pro League side Sporting Goa.
“Kinshuk is a Kolkata football legend who has strengthened our back line with his astute game reading and leadership skills,” said Richard Hood, Head Coach, FCBU. “With Ravanan you are always sure to get 100% from him - his commitment, determination and application has never been never in question. And both James and George bring in intensity as well as brave and intelligent gameplay.” "
FIVE TRANSFERS OFFICIALLY CONFIRMED FOR SC EAST BENGAL,MANY ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE WAITING
31.8.21: It's a busy deadline day transfer for SC East Bengal this year. So far five transfers have been officially confirmed- midfielder Amarjit Singh Kiyam joined SC East Bengal on loan from FC Goa; defender Adil Khan joined SC East Bengal on loan from Hyderabad FC; Subho Ghosh and Naorem Mahesh Singh signed for SC East Bengal on loan from Kerala Blasters FC. Sarineo Fernandez joins SC East Bengal on a permanent move with a undisclosed transfer fees from FC Goa.
As per the latest news, SC East Bengal is going to sign few goan players Romeo Fernandez, Joyner Lourenco. Along with them they retains the service of Sankar Roy, Suvam Sen, Sourav Das, Raju Gaikwad and Ankit Mukherjee, Jeje Lalpekhlua. Jackichand Singh and Songpu Singsit are also going to join SC East Bengal.Local boy Hira Mondal have joined SC East Bengal after a fine display with Mohammedan SC in I-League last season. All those signings yet to be confirmed by both the club ends.
U17 World Cup captain Amarjit told in club media: "It’s like a dream come true for a young player like me. I am eager to improve and want to contribute to helping this team achieve more and more success." "
KERALA BLASTERS FC SIGNED CHENCHO GYELTSHEN
31.8.21: Kerala Blasters FC signed Bhutan's National Team player Chencho Gyeltshen for the upcoming season. In last season he played for I-League side Roundglass Punjab FC.
Bhutanese International Chencho played for several Indian clubs and also won I-League with Minerva Punjab FC in 2017-18 season. Later he played for Bengaluru FC, Neroca FC.
He made 37 appearances in I-League and scored 17 goals and 8 assists. He made 9 appearances in ISL with Bengaluru FC and scored 2 goals. He also played AFC Cup qualifier where he scored 5 goals in his 8 appearances.
Chencho said on Twitter after signing, "I am very delighted to share this with you all that joining Kerala Blasters is one of my wish come true. I can’t wait to be joining yellow army and play in front of all the fans!" "
FC GOA SIGNED DYLAN FOX
31.8.21: FC Goa have completed the signing of Dylan Fox from NorthEast United FC on one year contract until 2022.
27 year old Australian center back played for NorthEast United last season where he made 21 appearances to help his team to finish in 3rd position of Indian Super League. Earlier he spent 4 seasons in the A-League playing for Wellington Phoenix (3 seasons) and the Central Coast Mariners.
Speaking to fcgoa.in after sealing his switch to Goa, Fox said: “I am thrilled at having completed the signing. FC Goa was in touch ever since last season was over and it was a move both of us wanted. Last season, I grew to appreciate the kind of football they play and I really wanted to be part of the team. And that was a feeling that was reciprocated. I can’t wait to get started.”
FC Goa’s Director of Football, Ravi Puskur said, “We’re pleased to bring Dylan on board. He was a very instrumental player in NorthEast United’s campaign last year and he will be a good fit in our system as well. His knowledge, experience of the league is an added benefit and we expect him to settle into the team in no time.” "
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNED GHANAIAN STRIKER RAHIM OSUMANU
31.8.21: Gokulam Kerala FC have announced the signing of Rahim Osumanu, a striker from Ghana. Before coming to India, he played in several countries including Ethiopia, Algeria, and Zambia.
The 26-year-old striker netted 12 goals in 25 appearances for the Zambia super league side Buildcon FC. He later moved to Zesco United in Zambia in 2018 where he netted twice in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. He played for Algerian club top club ASO Chief and in last season he played in Ethiopian side Jimma Aba Jifar in the Ethiopian Premier League.
“This is my first stint in India. I am looking forward to a superb season ahead and the fans will get to know who I am shortly. I have started training and we are all set for our first championship of the season,” said Rahim Osumanu.
“He is a box player and he is a top finisher. He is equally good in aerial duels. Also, his leadership skills are top-notch. I believe he can make a big impact in Asia,” said GKFC head coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese.
“Rahim is a player, who can make a huge difference up front. He has experience in playing for top clubs in Africa. We welcome Rahim to Gokulam and wish him a fantastic season,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC. "
JAMSHEDPUR FC SIGNED BRAZILIAN CENTER BACK ELI SABIA
31.8.21: Jamshedpur FC completed their forth foreign signing as Brazilian center-back Eli Sabia joins the club for the upcoming season.He will be joining with Peter Hartley, Alex Lima and Nerijus Valskis.
Neymar's teammate in Santos played for Chennaiyin FC in ISL last season. In his previous 4 seasons in ISL he made 67 appearances and scored 2 goals and also have 2 assistsassists with an impressive 424 clearances so far.
“I see Jamshedpur as a club and a city with big ambition. I want to give my best for the team and the fans who are so passionate about the team. I want to compete to win each match and battle to get the top honours for the club and the fans,” Eli said in club media.
“Eli is one of the best defenders in the ISL. He is an outstanding personality and is a real team player. He has been playing in the ISL for 4 seasons, one of them with me, and comes with a serial winning mentality. Just like Peter, he has a great command in defence and is very organised. His tall and robust presence will provide so much solidity and security at the back. I am looking forward to working with him again,” head coach Owen Coyle said. "
KERALA BLASTERS FC SIGNED SPANISH STRIKER ALVARO VAZQUEZ
30.8.21: Kerala Blasters FC signed 30 year old Spanish striker Álvaro Vázquez García for the upcoming season. He played in La Liga and Premier League for 10 seasons.
Espanyol product made his professional debut in La Liga against Real Madrid coming on as a substitute for Sergio García midway through the second half. Later he played many years with Espanyol, Getafe, one season in Premier League side Swansea City. Later he played Segunda Division side Zimnastic, Zaragoza and Sporting Gijon.
He played UEFA Europa League during his time with Premier League side Swansea City. So far he made nearly 300 appearences where he scored 57 goals. He represent Spain in various age groups including U20, U21, U23. This is his first stint outside Europe. "
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNED SOURAV K ON LONG TERM DEAL
30.8.21: Local lad Sourav K has signed a three-year-long contract with Gokulam Kerala FC until 2024 after an impressive trial.
20 year old winger Sourav started his football journey at KV Soccer Academy in Kannur at the age of 15. A student of SN College in Kannur he has represented Kannur University in the all-India inter-university football championship. He was also part of previous Kerala’s Santosh Trophy camp that was terminated due to Covid-19.
“This is a big opportunity for me. I am thankful to the club for giving me a platform to develop into a professional. I will try my best to liven up to the expectations the club has on me,” said Sourav.
“The signing is an example of Gokulam Kerala FC’s philosophy to promote youngsters, who have talent. We will continue to give a platform to budding youngsters from Kerala. We wish Sourav all the best at Gokulam,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
HYDERABAD FC SIGNED SPANISH STRIKER JAVI SIVERIO
30.8.21: Hyderabad FC have completed the signing of Spanish striker Javier Siverio ahead of the 2021-22 Indian Super League campaign.
The 23 year old striker started off his youth career with Laguna before joining the youth setup of Spanish Segunda Division side Las Palmas in 2015. During his time at Las Palmas B side he trained under current HFC Head Coach Manolo Marquez in the 2016-17 season.
“I am really excited to sign for Hyderabad FC and I cannot wait to make my ISL debut. Last season, the team was very close to making it into the top-4 and I am sure we will be aiming for a higher finish in the upcoming campaign” said Siverio after completing the formalities.
Head coach Manolo Marquez says, “Javi Siverio is a young striker who has played for the academies at Las Palmas and Racing Santander, where he also scored for the senior side. He is a natural finisher, is very clever inside the box and is also strong in the air. He is only 23 and will join Hyderabad to try and show us his qualities,”
He joins Hyderabad as the fourth new overseas player after Bartholomew Ogbeche, Edu Garcia and Juanan.
FC BENGALURU UNITED CONFIRMED FOUR NEW SIGNINGS TODAY
30.8.21: FC Bengaluru United (FCBU) have added four new players to their squad, as part of their preparations for the 2021/22 season. Ahead of the much-awaited Durand Cup, the BDFA Super Division Champions have signed up striker Subhash Singh and midfielders Sanju Pradhan, Denil Rebello and Bedashwor Singh.
The 31-year-old forward Subash Singh is a seasoned I-League campaigner, having played for various clubs including Air India, East Bengal, Salgaocar, Pune FC, Shillong Lajong, Bharat FC, Mohun Bagan, NEROCA FC, Real Kashmir and Mohammedan SC. He was also part of the Indian Super League side Mumbai City FC for the 2014 season.
"I am excited to be part of the United journey," said Subash. "I strongly believe that we have the team - both in terms of personnel and spirit - to put in a great showing at the Durand Cup and qualify for the I-League as well," added the versatile striker, who has also featured at the U-19 and U-23 level for India.
Bolstering the midfield will be Sanju Pradhan, who brings in valuable I-League and ISL experience. The 31-year-old player joins FCBU from RoundGlass Punjab. Having started his professional career with Air India, Sanju went on to play for East Bengal in 2008 - he played four seasons and was part of multiple trophy winning campaigns for them. He made 72 appearances for Air India and scored 10 goals. He was part of the ATK side that clinched the inaugural ISL title in 2014. The midfielder has played 55 ISL matches playing for various ISL clubs such as NorthEast United, FC Pune City and Mumbai City FC.
"I am excited about sharing my experience with the younger players in the team," said Sanju. "The club is run extremely professionally, and I am really happy to be a part of it. I am looking forward to good game time and performing to my potential."
The third signee is 23-year-old Denil Rebello who started his youth career at Salgaocar FC and played for their senior team in the 2019-20 Goa Pro League season. He was then signed by fellow Goan side Vasco Sports Club for the 2020-21 season.
FCBU have also roped in rising star Bedashwor Singh. A product of the AIFF Elite Academy, Bedashwor spent his youth days with ISL club Chennaiyin FC as a developmental player. During this time, he was loaned out to Minerva Punjab and Fateh Hyderabad in the 2016-17 and 2018-19 seasons respectively before joining I-league side TRAU FC in 2019, where he spent two seasons.
Commenting on the new signings, Richard Hood, Head Coach, FC Bengaluru United said "Sanju comes to us with a massive reputation - he has captained important teams and knows what a winning dressing room is like. He will bring us a lot of stability in building our attack and his track record of creating chances and finding gaps into the opponent's final third is the primary reason the staff made sure that we secured him as soon as his availability was brought to our attention. Subash is an explosive athlete who has the ability to beat players and destabilize defenses with skill and speed while being a proven scorer of goals. Having joined our season from day one, we see that he takes his training hours seriously and is committed towards continuous improvements, which has rubbed off on others."
TRAU FC CONFIRMED TWO SIGNINGS TODAY
30.8.21: TRAU FC today confirmed two more foreigners today, Brazilian striker Thales Lima and Uzbekistan's forward Akobir Turaev.
32 year old Thales Lima played for Thai League 2 side Udon Thani FC. Former Uzbekistan U23 player, 24 year old Akobir played for Tajikistan Vysshaya Liga side FK Eskhata in last season.
They will be joining with another two foreigners Joseph Mayowa and Helder Lobato.
TRAU FC CONFIRMED TWO SIGNINGS TODAY
29.8.21: TRAU FC today confirmed the signing 20 year old defender Manash Gogoi. Netrajit Singh also extends his stay with TRAU FC for one more season.
Tata Football Academy product Manash promoted to Jamshedpur FC senior team last season but he did not played in ISL. Manash signed 2 years contract and will stay until 2023.
NORTHEAST UNITED FC ANNOUNCED RETAINING OF 5 PLAYERS SO FAR
29.8.21: NorthEast United FC retains 5 players so far from their last season squad - goalkeeper Subhasish Roy Chowdhury, left back Gurjinder Kumar, center forward VP Suhair, midfielder Imran Khan and defender Mashoor Shereef.
34 year old Subhasish so far played 54 matches in ISL. After returning to ISL in last season Gurjinder played 18 matches last season with a total 22 appearances so far. 26 year old Imran played 6 matches in his debut ISL season. One of the regular of last season Suhair played 19 matches in his debut ISL season last year. 28 year old defender Mashoor played 11 matches in his debut ISL season.
ISL TO START FROM 19TH NOVEMBER: PRACTICE GROUNDS FINALISED
29.8.21: The upcoming eighth edition of Indian Super League will be played behind closed doors at Nehru Stadium Fatorda, GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim and Tilak Maidan .Vasco The ISL will start on and from the 19th of November inside a bio secure bubble owing to Covid-19 pandemic.
The news which we recieved from our sources at Goa, the Indian Super League committee shortlisted 12 training Ground for the clubs and clubs were asked to choose. Bengaluru FC ,Kerala Blasters FC, North East United FC ,SC EastBengal ,Jamshedpur FC and Hyderabad FC choose their own training Grounds which were not on the list.
The ISL champions, Mumbai City FC will train at Nagoa Panchayat Sports Complex which is in good condition.
ATK Mohun Bagan have got the best facilitated venue at Trinity ground in Benaulim having floodlights, where Under-17 Indian Team trained for FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017.
Jamshedpur FC have been alloted Don Bosco Ground, Panaji located in state capital which is good in state, usually used by the Sporting Clube de Goa .
FC Goa will train at Salvador do Mundo Ground as the club have partnered with Panchayat Committee having floodlights FC Goa Salvador do Mundo Ground .
Kerala Blasters FC will train at Parra Ground.
Bengaluru FC will takeover Dempo Academy ground Ella. For their early preparations, they will train at Dempo Academy Ground, Old Goa,
Chennaiyin FC were another lucky team who got SAG ground at Utorda where floodlight facility is available, which will help club to train even at evening time.
Odisha FC have opted for the Rosary Ground , Navelim.
Hyderabad FC will train at Raia Panchayat Ground. The ground has been choosen wisely by the club as the ground is less than few Kilometers away from Nehru Stadium.
While, NorthEast United FC have picked the Sinquetim/Cuncolim ground in , which has a newly laid turf, at Sinquetim .
SC East Bengal have been allotted Don Bosco Oratory Ground, Fatorda which is in good state.
The teams will arrive at Goa on the first week of October for the final preparations before the tournament.
MIDFIELDER AMARJIT SINGH ARE IN THE RADER OF SC EAST BENGAL..
29.8.21: Amarjit Singh Kiyam, the midfielder of FC Goa, are in the rader of SC BENGAL for the upcoming season. A product of the AIFF Elite academy, 20 years old footballer from Manipur, Amarjit was the captain of India in U17 World Cup.
Sources said that the midfielder are in discussion with the officials of SC EAST BENGAL and the deal is likely to be finalized soon.
NEROCA FC CONFIRMS THEIR 4TH FOREIGNER..
29.8.21: Neroca FC today confirmed 28 year old Spanish forward Sergio Mendigutxia as their 4th foreigner for the upcoming season.
Athletic Bilbao youth player Sergio played for several clubs including Spanish clubs CD Basconia, La Roda, Cordoba, Sporting Gijon, UD Logrones, Racing Ferrol, UD Sanse and Marino Luanco and Poland-based side Stal Mielec. His only La Liga appearance was in 2015-16 with Sporting Gijon. He also represent Spain in U19 category.
He will be joining with Brazilian defender Danilo, Lebanese striker Mohamad Kdouh and Spanish midfielder Juan Mera.
GOKULAM KERALA FC RENEWED THE CONTRACT OF INDIAN NATIONAL TEAM GOALKEEPER ADITI CHAUHAN
29.8.21: Indian national team goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan extends her stay with Gokulam Kerala FC.
Aditi was an integral part of the Malabarians IWL 2019 win. Though she had agreed on a deal with Iceland’s third division team Hamar Hveragerði, the transfer didn’t materialize due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
She has represented India in different age groups and also played in the UK for West Ham United Ladies while the English club was playing in the third division. She was part of the Indian team that won the SAFF Women’s Championship in 2016 and 2019 and won a gold medal at the South Asian Games in 2016.
“I am very happy to be back at the club that has given me some very special memories, hope to make more when we play at the first-ever AFC club championship,” said Aditi after signing her new contract with Gokulam.
“We are glad to have the Indian team’s first-choice keeper to guard our net. We believe her experience and ability to inspire players will help us to bring more laurels," said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
KERALA BLASTERS FC ARGENTINE STRIKER JORGE PEREYRA DIAZ ON LOAN
28.8.21: Kerala Blasters FC have announced the loan signing of Argentine striker Jorge Pereyra Diaz from Club Atletico Platense for the upcoming season.
31-year-old has also plied his trade in countries like Malaysia, Mexico, Chile , Bolivia and also with his home country. He follows Hormipam Ruivah, Sanjeev Stalin, Vincy Barretto, Harmanjot Khabra, Adrian Luna and Enes Sipovic into the team as the seventh new signing.
“We are proud and happy to have a player like Jorge in the team and I would like to congratulate him. He can put in some solid performances with his potential and we extend our support to him,” Kerala Blasters FC Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys said after the forward’s signing.
"We are very pleased to participate in this year’s Durand Cup. Hope that we will have good games ahead as it is very important to play games in this part of pre-season. The tournament format could be an extra motivation for our players because we like to compete," said Vukomanovic ahead of the tournament.
JAMSHEDPUR FC RETAINS ALEX LIMA
28.8.21: Jamshedpur FC retains 32 years old Brazilian midfielder Alex Lima for one more season.
Alex Lima joined Jamshedpur FC last season and played 19 matches for the team. During that time he made 28 interceptions and 13 clearances.
Alex Lima said, "The fans are so passionate and they love the team so much. I want to give my best in the upcoming season and help us win the ISL trophy".
Head coach Owen Coyle said, "Alex showed fantastic character and team spirit last season despite picking up an injury. Now that he is injury free, there is more to come from him. "
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC SIGNED GOALKEEPER LALTHUAMMAWIA RALTE
28.8.21: Roundglass Punjab FC signed goalkeeper Lalthuammawia Ralte on a 2 years deal until 2023. He played for Bengaluru FC in last season.
28 year old experienced goalkeeper played several top ISL and I-League clubs including Bengaluru FC, NorthEast United, FC Goa, Kerala Blasters FC, East Bengal after starting his professional career with Shillong Lajong FC.
During his time with Bengaluru FC he won I-League with 20 appearances in that season and also played AFC Cup.
FC BENGALURU UNITED RETAINS 13 PLAYERS OF LAST SEASON
28.8.21: BDFA Super Division Champions, FC Bengaluru United have released a list of 13 retained players ahead of the 2021-22 domestic season today. They also submitted their bid to qualify for the I-League in September.
"We have always been clear and focused on our goal - to bring Bengaluru back to the I-League,” said Gaurav Manchanda, Owner, FC Bengaluru United. “We are thankful to all the players who have played an integral role in the journey thus far. Continuity plays a key role in building a robust team structure and we are glad we have the core strength to ensure this going forward into the new season.”
While Hayden said he was excited about continuing to work with "experienced professionals who have helped me elevate my game to the next level", Ronaldo said he was looking forward to "helping my teammates and have a great season ahead". Arun said he was looking forward to learning more from Head Coach, Richard Hood, whose training, he believes "has helped improve my fitness".
“Since last October last year, all decisions have been made keeping in mind the upcoming Qualifiers,” said Richard Hood, Head Coach, FC Bengaluru United. “We immensely value and respect the contributions of the players who have not been able to continue with us. The BDFA Super Division was a crucial platform to assess our squad for strengths and gaps - and the retained players have displayed the qualities to build on our game model with which we want to secure competitive success and promotion to the I-League.”
The full list of the thirteen players retained by FC Bengaluru United for the 2021-22 season is as follows:
1. Srijith Ramesh – Goalkeeper
2. Kunzang Bhutia – Goalkeeper
3. Robin Gurung – Defender
4. Anup L – Defender
5. Brandon Green – Defender
6. Asraf Mondal – Defender
7. Asrar Rehbar – Midfielder
8. Hayden Fernandes – Midfielder
9. Arun N – Midfielder
10. Jaison Vaz – Striker
11. Ronaldo Oliveira – Striker
12. Naro Shrestha – Striker
13. Chelston Pinto -- Defender
BENGALURU FC SIGNED BRAZILIAN MIDFIELDER BRUNO RAMIRES
28.8.21: Bengaluru FC confirmed the signing of Brazilian midfielder Bruno Edgar Silva Almeida, "Bruno Ramires", on a two-year deal until the end of the 2022-23 season. Ramires most recently played for Portuguese Primeira Liga side Belenenses SAD.
Bahia Youth Academy product Ramires started his professional career with Cruzeiro where he secured the Brazilian domestic double in 2014, winning the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A and Campeonato Mineiro.
After a loan spell at Portuguese side Moreirense, Ramires returned to Brazil in at Centro Sportivo Alagoano in 2019. Ramires then joined Portuguese LigaPro side Feirense. At Belenenses, Ramires made 32 appearances across all competitions, as the side finished 10th in the League.
“I am very happy to have signed with Bengaluru FC. It’s a new challenge for me and I hope to have a good season with my new teammates. My primary target is to fight for trophies with this club, because I know this team has a winning mentality. I want to work hard with my new teammates, play as much as I can and contribute to the team in the best possible way,” Ramires said after completing formalities.
Bengaluru FC coach Marco Pezzaiuoli said, “Bruno is a young, influential and a very versatile player who can play in many positions in the midfield. He makes his presence felt on both ends of the pitch, and with his experiences playing in Brazil and the Portuguese First Division, I am sure he will help what is a relatively young squad. His signing will lend the team solidity as we look forward to the Indian Super League season.”
ARINDAM BHATTACHARJEE LIKELY TO JOIN SC EAST BENGAL
28.8.21: SC East Bengal are to finalize an important deal. According to our sources goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharjee is likely to join Red and Gold for the upcoming season. Though the details of the deal are yet to confirm.
Arindam is an experienced goalkeeper played for ATK Mohun Bagan for last three years. His contract with the Mariners will end at the end of this season. Arindam in his social media informed regarding his parting away with ATK Mohun Bagan to a new club and is ready to accept challange in his new destination.
SC East Bengal are in search of an experienced goalkeeper offered Arindam to sign the deal in their favour. The deal is yet to finalise. Apart from ATK Mohun Bagan and Mohun Bagan, the 31 years old goalkeeper played for Churchill Brothers, Sporting Clube, FC Pune City, Bengaluru FC and Bharat FC.
SREENIDI DECCAN FC SIGNED ARIJIT BAGUI
28.8.21: I-League side Sreenidi Deccan FC signed defender Arijit Bagui for the upcoming season.
27 year old defender Arijit played several clubs of Kolkata including a good spell at Mohun Bagan along with Mohammedan SC, Bhawanipore SC, Kalighat MS, Peerless SC. He won I- League, Calcutta Football League Premier A and Sikkim Governor's Gold Cup during his time at Mohun Bagan.
TRAU FC RETAINS JOSEPH OLALEYE
27.8.21: TRAU FC retains their Nigerian forward Joseph Olaleye for one more season. He joined TRAU FC in 2018-19 season during their 2nd Division I-League campaign. He also played last season with TRAU FC in I-League.
He played 24 matches so far with TRAU FC and scored 7 goals so far.
NEROCA FC SIGNED BRAZILIAN CENTER BACK
27.8.21: Neroca FC signed 27 year old Brazilian center back Danilo Quipapa for the upcoming season. He played for Minerva Punjab FC and Roundglass Punjab FC in last two seasons.
Neroca FC also signed former Manipur State League side Sagolbond United defender Lallenmang Sitlhou. Neroca FC signed three young stars from their Chennai trial - Gerlad Barreto, Inban Udhyanidhi, Nikhil Saran.
MUMBAI CITY FC SIGNED BRAZILIAN MIDFIELDER
27.8.21: Mumbai City FC announced the signing of 29 year old Brazilian midfielder Cassio Gabriel on a season-long loan from Campeonato Brasileirao Serie B club Vila Nova.
Started his youth career at Fluminense’s under 20s side and went on to play for a number of Brazilian clubs such as Paysandu SC, Bento Goncalves, Guarani, Anapolis, ASEEV-GO, Penapolense, Piracicaba, Sao Bento, Botafogo and Mirassol before joining Vila Nova in June 2020.
Cassio said: “Mumbai City FC have a great profile back home in Brazil. There are a number of Brazilians who have played at Mumbai City FC and I've only heard positive things about the Club. Mumbai City FC are the defending champions and their ambition is what convinced me that this is where I want to be. The Club wants to win titles, they want to be the best, not only in India but at a continental level, and I am really excited to be part of a Club of this mentality.
“The [Hero] ISL is one of the fastest-growing leagues in the world, and the quality of football being played here is really great. I know we have a massive season ahead of us, defending the [Hero] ISL title as well as the AFC Champions League campaign. It will be a new challenge for me, but I am fully prepared for it, and I cannot wait to start this exciting journey with my new family.”
Head Coach Sergio Lobera said: “Cassio comes from an excellent football pedigree and brings a lot of valuable experience along with his skillset on the pitch. I believe he can be a vital member of the Mumbai City FC family and certainly contribute positively to the team’s performance. We are pleased to have a great talent like Cassio on our side.”
Gokulam Kerala FC have signed Indian international Dangmei Grace for the upcoming season.
27.8.21: The 25-year-old forward from Manipur has been a mainstay of the Indian team for the past five years. She has scored 14 goals in 37 appearances for the country and is one of the finest forwards the country has right now.
She can be used as main striker and also as a winger. Other than an eye for goal, Grace is known for her defense-penetrating passes. She is also known for speed, agility, and aggression.
Grace started his football journey at an early age and has been with Manipur club KRYPHSA since her childhood. The player is currently in the Indian team camp in Jharkhand preparing for Asian Women’s Cup 2022.
IGOR STIMAC ANNOUNCED 25 MEMBER TEAM AGAINST NEPAL
27.8.21: Indian Head coach Igor Stimac today announced a twenty five members squad for the International Friendlies against Nepal on September 2 and 5, respectively.
INDIAN SQUAD Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
Defenders: Pritam Kotal, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Mandar Rao Dessai, Akash Mishra, Rahul Bheke, Subhasish Bose, Seriton Fernandes.
Midfielders: Lalengmawia, Bipin Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Sahal Abdul Samad, Brandon Fernandes, Liston Colaco, Yasir Mohammad, Glan Martins, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Jeakson Singh, Pronay Halder.
Forwards: Manvir Singh, Rahim Ali, Sunil Chhetri, Farukh Choudhary.
Stimac was discussing his teams performance under heavy condition against Md Sporting club yesterday. He said, "We should have scored a few goals much earlier. But it was not easy under the heavy downpour, and a heavy pitch,It rained all throughout the match, and the downpour was heavy from midway in the second half."
The National Team probables have been training in Kolkata since August 15.
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNED CAMEROON DEFENDER AMINOU BOUBA
26.8.21: I-League champion Gokulam Kerala FC have signed Cameroon defender Aminou Bouba ahead of the upcoming season.
30-year-old center back has plied his trade in Cameroon, Tunisia, Algeria, Guinea, and Saudi Arabia. He has also represented Cameroon National team and the under-20 team.
“I am glad to play in India. I have played in different leagues in various countries and I look forward to a successful stint at Gokulam Kerala FC. The club has a huge profile and I would love to contribute to the successes here,” said Aminou Bouba.
“He is an excellent player. He is a left-footer and suits our style of play. He has got good international experience both at the club and national level. He has an attacking mind and eye to score goals also. I am so happy that he is here,” said Gokulam Kerala FC Head Coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese.
“We are glad to have Aminou Bouba in our ranks. His presence and experience will help our defensive line. We wish him all the best for the upcoming season,” said VC Praveen, Gokulam Kerala FC president.
SC EAST BENGAL CONFIRMED HIRA MONDAL ARE IN THE PROCESS OF FORMING A COMPETITIVE TEAM
26.8.21: After a mutual understanding between investors Sree Cement and East Bengal club in presense of Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, SC East Bengal Foundation are in the process of build up a competitive team for the upcoming season. Though they have to finalise the team within a very short span as the first transfer window will be closed on the 31st of August.
According to the latest update which we have recieved, East Bengal will retain Raju Gaikwad, Subham Sen, Sankar Roy, Bikash Jairu, Ankit Mukherjee, Md Rafiq, Jeje Lalpekhlua, Sourav Das and Balwant Singh.
Meanwhile, SC East Bengal confirmed and signed Hira Mondal, the left back for the upcoming season. Hira Mondal had an exceptional performance in I League for Md Sporting in the recently concluded season. SC East Bengal are in discussion with Adil Khan and Chinglensana Singh of Hyderabad FC and Prabir Das of ATK Mohun Bagan.
Kalyan Majumdar, the General Secretary of East Bengal sent a letter to Sibaji Samaddar, the CEO of SC East Bengal Foundation, assured for all sorts of cooperation for building up a formidable team for participation in CFL and Indian Super League.
FC BENGALURU UNITED CONFIRMED THEIR TWO FOREIGNERS
26.08.21: BDFA Super Division Champions FC Bengaluru United (FCBU) have signed Luka Majcen and Pedro Manzi for the upcoming season. The foreign duo’s have joined the practice and will play Durand Cup in Kolkata
32-year-old Slovenian forward Luka Majcen played for Churchill Brothers in last season. Majcen finished the I-League season with 11 goals and 2 assists; a tally which saw him finish second in the Golden Boot race in the league.
“I am delighted to join FC Bengaluru United for the new season," Majcen said. "The club has a clear goal and vision about where they see themselves in the coming years - which is to be playing in the I-League. My objective is to help the team win and achieve this goal together with my new teammates. I am excited about the opportunity and am looking forward to working with Head Coach Richard Hood, whose reputation as one of the sharpest coaches in Indian football precedes him,” said Majcen.
2018-19 I-League champion Pendro Manzi played for Chennai City FC. The Spanish forward finished that season as the Golden Boot winner in the I-League with 26 goals. In last season he played for Mohammedan SC.
“I am very happy to return to India and play for FC Bengaluru United. Bengaluru has a great sporting culture, and the fans really support their team. I would like to use all my career experience to help the team grow, whether it is with my offensive tactical play, assists for goals and also the way I apply pressure with my defensive skills," Manzi said. "Being part of the FC Bengaluru United journey will help me in my own professional journey. I was excited to accept this challenge and look forward to playing a leading role in guiding the club to the I-League. The club has seamless processes in place and has enjoyed a great growth journey over the last few years – the results are there for all to see. So, it was very easy for me to accept the offer after speaking to their head Coach, Richard Hood and General Manager, Somanna CS," Manzi said.
"With 2 foreign players allowed on the pitch there was a lot of effort behind the analysis that went into identifying and securing our prime targets for our promotion bid," said Richard Hood, Head Coach, FC Bengaluru United. "In Luka we have a thorough team player who brings a lot of hunger, intensity and ferocity with every minute that he is involved in. There is a tremendous work ethic and desire to win that complements our playing style from the front both on and off the ball. His efforts are sure to get us a lot of goals. Pedro is lethal in the final third of the pitch and has proven that with plenty of conviction in two campaigns of the I-League. Apart from his scoring and high assist track record - we recognised his strong play making abilities around which we have built a squad that will control the game and progress the attack with pace and precision."
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC SIGNED KEEGAN PEREIRA, C K VINEETH
25.08.21: Roundglass Punjab FC signed I-League and ISL winning defended Keegan Pereira and experienced forward C K Vineeth for the upcoming season.
33 year old defender Keegan played for SC East Bengal in last season. He played several top clubs including Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC, ATK, Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, Salgaocar and Mumbai FC.He played 48 matches so far in Indian Super League. He won I-League with Bengaluru FC and won ISL with ATK.
33 year old striker C K Vineeth also played for SC East Bengal in last season. Before that he played several top sides including Jamshedpur FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Chennaiyin FC, Bengaluru FC. He came into limelight after a fine Calcutta Football League season in Prayag United SC, currently known as United SC in 2012-13 season. He made 60 appearances in Indian Super League where he scored 13 goals and have 3 assists.
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNS CHARLES ANANDRAJ
25.08.21: Gokulam Kerala FC have signed 30-year-old defensive midfielder Charles Anandraj Lourdusamy for the upcoming season.
Charles played for Chennai City FC where he made 47 appearances in I-League. He played Santosh Trophy representing Tamilnadu and also his office team Railways.
I am very happy to sign for GKFC. The team is preparing well for the I-League and Durand Cup. We are focussing on winning both the tournaments this year,” said Charles.
“Charles is an experienced player and who can be very useful to our squad this year. We wish him all the best for his stay with the GKFC,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
JAMSHEDPUR FC SIGNED DEFENDER PC LALDINPUIA
24.08.21: Jamshedpur FC signed defender Pc Laldinpuia on a three years deal until 2024. He played for I-League side Aizawl FC in last season and featured in all the matches in that campaign.
Versatile 24 year old defender Laldinpuia started his career with Mizoram Premier League side Bethlehem Vengthlang before moving to Chhinga Veng. After the 2018–19 season, he was awarded the Best Defender award in the Mizoram Premier League. He also participated with the club during their 2nd Division campaign. In last season he joined Aizawl FC. He represents Mizoram in 2018,2019 Santosh Trophy.
Dinpuia said, "I am so glad to be here. Playing in the top league of India one day was my dream and it has finally come true. I thank the club and the head coach for trusting in my abilities. I will give everything in training and on the pitch to help Jamshedpur FC fight for the coveted [Hero] ISL trophy and bring a smile on the faces of all fans."
Head coach Owen Coyle said, "We had been tracking Dinpuia’s development since last season itself and he just kept on impressing everyone. He will be a solid addition to the squad considering his versatility. He was rock solid with Aizawl and played across the back line in all positions. After watching him closely and having conversations with him, I was convinced that he would develop into a great player for us.”
ODISHA FC SIGNS MALAYSIAN MIDFIELDER LIRIDON KRASNIQI
24.08.21: Manisha, who is from Punjab, has been playing for Gokulam for the past two seasons in the Indian Women’s League. She is a forward, who can be deployed in both wings.
Along with Sabitra she had formed a potent combination during the Indian Women’s League 2019 season to help Malabarians win the title. She is known for her pace, knack for goal, and techniques.
“I am glad to extend my contract with Gokulam Kerala FC. I have been with the team for more than three years and the club is like a home for me. We will try our best to defend the title and win the AFC Cup,” said Manisha, after signing her contract renewal.
“We are happy to have Manisha onboard. She is a brilliant player and has a huge prospect. We are aiming at building a good team for the AFC Cup and Manisha will only add more vigour to the team,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
ODISHA FC SIGNS MALAYSIAN MIDFIELDER LIRIDON KRASNIQI
23.08.21: Odisha FC reached an agreement with Malaysian professional football Club Johor Darul Ta'zim FC over a loan deal of midfielder Liridon Krasniqi for the upcoming season.
29 year old Krasniqi started his career in Europe. He made his professional debut for FK Mladá Boleslav in Czech Republic in 2011 before signing for Turkish club Ankaraspor. Later he played for another Turkish Club Fethiyespor.
In 2015 he returned back to Malaysia and joined Kedah Darul Aman Football Club where he won 2016 Malaysia Cup and 2017 Malaysia FA Cup titles. Later he joined Melaka United in 2019 and currently Malaysia Super League champions Johor Darul Ta'zim. He also played for Australian side Newcastle Jets in the A-League on loan in early 2021.
He represent Albanian under 21 side and Kosovo senior team and later represent Malaysia senior National Team this year.
After signing for the Club, he said, "I am really delighted to join Odisha FC and I am looking forward to starting an amazing journey in India. I hope it will be a great season ahead under Head Coach Kiko Ramirez. I can't wait to get started and meet my teammates at OFC. We will try and bring joy for all the Odisha fans in the upcoming [Hero] ISL."
Odidha FC Head Coach Kiko Ramirez explained, "Liridon is going to give us character, attitude and intensity. He is a player with a high physical capacity and has good technique. He is a box-to-box midfielder who can help us both in attack and in defence and will give us the energy that the team needs to fight for the entire duration of 90 minutes."
Odisha FC Club President Mr Raj Athwal said, "We are pleased to welcome Malaysian International Liridon Krasniqi to Odisha Football Club. An imposing midfielder who is also adept in defence, he adds further depth and quality to the squad."
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNS PAWAN KUMAR
23.08.21: Gokulam Kerala FC signed experienced defender Pawan Kumar on a two years deal until 2023.
26 year old AIFF Academy product Pawan have experience in playing both I-League, ISL and also India in U19 side.
Making his senior debut with Salgaocar FC in 2015-16 season, he moved to another goan outfit Churchill Brothers FC in next season. He then joined ISL side FC Pune City and then NorthEast United FC. In last season he played for I-League side Real Kashmir FC.
“It is a great opportunity to represent Gokulam Kerala FC. I have been with the club for a couple of weeks and the team is shaping up well for the upcoming tournaments,” said Pawan Kumar.
“Pawan Kumar is an experienced player who can bring us more laurels. We wish him all the best for his tenure at Gokulam Kerala FC,” said VC Praveen, Gokulam Kerala FC president.
SREENIDI DECCAN FC CONFIRMS FEW MORE SIGNINGS
22.08.21: Vizag based new I-League side Sreenidi Deccan FC today confirmed the signing of forward Girik Khosla. 26 year old Minerva Punjab FC product Girik played for NorthEast United FC, Punjab FC and SC East Bengal.
Earlier they announced the signing of left back Shahbaaz Khan, center back Lal Chungnunga, forward Vanlalbiaa Chhangte, central defender Bijay Chhetri.
They also signed central midfielder Fredsan Marshall, forward Mc Malsawmzuala, central midfielder Suraj Rawat, Shibil Mohammed, right back Salad Ali Mallick, midfielder Lalromawia, goalkeeper Shibin Raj, defensive midfielder Muthu Mayakannan, central defended Dinesh Singh and goalkeeper Ubaid CK under head coach Fernando Santiago Varela.
AIZAWL FC SIGNED GOALKEEPER ANUJ KUMAR
21.08.21: Aizawl FC signed Goalkeeper Anuj Kumar on loan from Hyderabad FC for the upcoming season.
He joined Hyderabad FC from its inception. In last season Anuj played for Real Kashmir FC on loan. During this season, 23 year old goalkeeper Anuj won IFA Shield and also played in I-League campaign at Kolkata.
CHENAIYIN FC SIGNED POLISH STRIKER LUKASZ GIKIEWICZ
21.08.21: Chennaiyin FC have signed Polish striker Lukasz Gikiewicz on one-year deal ahead of the upcoming season.
Lukasz has featured in two of the world’s biggest club tournaments, the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Champions League, making a combined 12 appearances. During his spell at Polish outfit Slask Wroclow, he played a crucial role in the club’s second league title in 2011-12 and also helped them lift the Polish Super Cup in the next year.
Lukasz has played in other Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and Bahrain. He had finished top scorer of the 2017-18 Jordanian Pro League while playing for Al-Faisaly Amman. He scored 49 goals and have 21 assists so far in his 200 plus appearances.
“I am very happy to join the club. My aim is to immediately help the team in getting a third ISL title. The fans deserve it and so does the club that has won the league two times already,” Lukasz told the club media team.
“Lukasz is a team player with good experience and a great personality. I believe he will help the team in many aspects, especially with goals,” CFC head coach Bozidar Bandovic commented.
“We look forward to Lukasz strengthening our attack and providing much-needed goals this season. This is a very positive signing for us,” said Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani.
MUMBAI CITY FC SIGNED RAHUL BHEKE
19.8.21: Rahul Bheke joined Mumbai City FC after he put pen to paper on a two-year contract until the end of the 2022-23 campaign with an option to extend for a further season.
30 year old defended Rahul Bheke started his youth career at Mahindra United. After that he went on to play for Air India, Mumbai Tigers and Mumbai FC before moving to East Bengal in 2015. He played for several ISL sides including Kerala Blasters, FC Pune City and most recently Bengaluru FC, making 92 appearances over the last six seasons. He scored 5 goals so far in ISL including an extra-time winner in the 2018-19 ISL Final leading Bengaluru FC to the title.
Rahul Bheke said, "It’s a surreal feeling, to have joined Mumbai City. This is my hometown club and of course, the defending champions. The feeling of representing your city and your people is what makes this game more special for me, and I did not have to think twice when the opportunity to join Mumbai City came about. I am aware of the ambitions we have at our club and the expectations that the coach Sergio Lobera has from me, and I’m fully prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. I’m ready to start this new journey with my new family and make memories with our fans.”
Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said, “Rahul is an experienced professional. He’s tremendously versatile in his abilities and he brings the traits of a leader, which is highly regarded in our club. Rahul knows what it takes to be a winner and he has the right mentality. He’s a Mumbai boy and I am sure he knows what it means to be here and what it would take. We are happy to have him here and I am confident that he can contribute positively at Mumbai City."
FSDL ACQUIRED MEDIA RIGHTS FROM AFC FOR COMPETITIONS IN THE SUBCONTINENT FOR FOUR YEARS
18.8.21: Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) have acquired the ‘Media Rights’ of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) competitions for the Indian subcontinent in a landmark 4-year agreement, to bring the best of Asian football to Indian homes.
The breakthrough deal, a first historic long-term agreement, signed with Football Marketing Asia, the exclusive commercial partner of the AFC. The agreement grants FSDL exclusive media rights ownership of all major AFC national team and club competitions, including but not limited to the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to Qatar Final Round, AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022, the AFC Asian Cup China 2023, as well as the annual club competitions AFC Champions League and AFC Cup from the 2021 season.
Expanding its footprint in the Asian market, the media rights deal reinforces a strong partnership and understanding between FSDL and AFC. FSDL will be sub-licensing the media rights to partner channels and partner digital services providing significantly more coverage of AFC competitions on both linear and digital channels in the sub-continent that has previously had very little exposure to Asian football.
The four-year AFC Media Rights deal for the 2021-2024 cycle provides FSDL media rights to the following AFC current and future fixtures:
AFC National Team Competitions
AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to Qatar (FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Asian Qualifiers Final Round)
AFC Women’s Asian Cup Finals 2022
AFC U23 Asian Cup Finals 2022
AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Finals 2022
AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Finals 2022
AFC Futsal Asian Cup Finals 2022
AFC Asian Cup Finals 2023
AFC U20 Asian Cup Finals 2023
AFC U17 Asian Cup Finals 2023
AFC U23 Asian Cup Finals 2024
AFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament (Final Round) for Paris 2024
AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Finals 2024
AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Finals 2024
AFC Futsal Asian Cup Finals 2024 (2024 acting as the 2024 FIFA World Futsal Championships – Asian Final Qualifying Round)
AFC Solidarity Cup 2024
AFC Club Competitions
AFC Champions League 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 (group stage, knock-out stage and finals)
AFC Cup 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 (group stage, knock-out stage and finals)
AFC Futsal Club Championships Finals 2022, 2023, 2024
The AFC Cup 2021 Group D competition being held at the National Football Stadium in Male, Maldives starting today, will be live telecast on Star Sports Network, for Hindi SS 1 & SS 1 HD; For English SS 2, SS 2 HD & SS 3. In addition, FSDL have also added TV9 Bangla and SS 1 Bangla in the regional channel mix. Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV will live stream on their respective OTT platforms.
As part of the agreement, FSDL will produce and distribute the match feed to AFC for most of the AFC competitions held in the Indian subcontinent.
HNK ŠIBENIK OFFICIALLY CONFIRMS THE SIGNING OF SANDESH JHINGAN
17.08.2021 : Croatian First Football League side HNK Šibenik officially confirmed the signing of Indian National Team defender Sandesh Jhingan in a Press Release. Sandesh joined Indian National Team Coach Igor Stimac's country's top division football side.
Francisco Cardona, the CEO of HNK Sibenik in a press release said, "We are very happy to have Sandesh with us. We expect good things from him as we have followed him on different platforms where we were able to see his past performances. Although we know the adaptation process might take him a few weeks, we are confident that with his quality and leadership, he will become an important member of the team."
The 28 year old Indian Defender Sandesh played for ATK Mohun Bagan in Indian Super League last season. He Played several top Indian side like Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru FC, DSK Shivajians, Sporting Goa. He made 40 appearances for the Indian National Team so far. The defender has two ISL runners-up medals with Kerala Blasters FC where he spent six years and moved to ATK Mohun Bagan in 2020 after missing the previous season due to injury.
HNK Šibenik secure their first win of this season after 4 matches when they beat Hrvatski Dragovoljac in 6-2 in 15th August and now in 8th position on the table. Sandesh already reached Crotia and also watched the game from the stand.
MEHTAB HUSSIAN JOINED MADAN MAHARAJ FC AS PLAYER CUM MENTOR
17.08.2021 : Mehtab Hussian joined Madhya Pradesh's Professional club Madan Maharaj FC as a player cum mentor ahead of the upcoming season.
35 year old defensive midfielder will join Bhopal based side, who likely to compete in I-League 2nd Division Side Madan Maharaj FC and also compete in Madhya Pradesh Premier League.
Mehtab played for various top clubs in his career including Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Kerala Blasters FC, Jamshedpur FC.
JAMSHEDPUR FC RE-SIGNED ANAS EDATHODIKA
17.08.2021 : Jamshedpur FC completed the signing of 34 year old Keralite defender Anas Edathodika for the upcoming season of the Indian Super League. He previously played for Jamshedpur FC in 2017-18 season.
Anas played for various top clubs like Mumbai FC, Pune FC, Delhi Dynamos, Mohun Bagan, ATK, Kerala Blasters FC and also Jamshedpur FC. He also played 19 matches for the Indian National Team.
Anas said, "It's great to be back with Jamshedpur. I had a good experience in my previous season here where I felt the unconditional love of the fans. I look forward to the new season and want to achieve success for the fans. I wish to complete my unfulfilled dream with the club by helping us win the ISL trophy. We missed out narrowly the last time I was here and want to make amends."
Anas revealed the reason for his return as he said, "The Gaffer along with my previous experience at the club were two great factors to make a return. Owen Coyle is a great coach. We all know what he has done and achieved in the past and I firmly believe that the club is going in the right direction under his guidance."
Head coach Owen Coyle said “Anas is a proven center-back with a wealth of experience playing in the top levels of Indian football for almost 15 years now. He is calm and composed under pressure and will be a valuable addition to the squad. Our objective is to continue what we achieved defensively last season. Lesser the goals conceded, the more the chances of winning and a player like Anas will give us that security.”
ODISHA FC SIGNED SPANISH WINGER ARIDAI CABRERA
16.08.2021 : Odisha FC signed 32 year old Spanish winger Aridai Cabrera for the upcoming season.
After starting his youth career with Universidad LP, Cabrera has also represented other clubs like RCD Mallorca, Girona FC, Betis B, Hospitalet, Sabadell FC, Huracan, Valencia B, Cultural Leonesa and Las Palmas.
After signing for Odisha FC, Aridai said, "I am very happy to sign for Odisha FC and I am really excited to play in India. I want to meet my teammates soon and start preparing for the upcoming season. We will definitely make sure that Odisha FC does well in the next [Hero] ISL."
Head Coach Kiko Ramirez commented, "Aridai is an electric player who can change the game with the magic that is needed in football. He is a footballer with very refined technical quality and capable of surpassing the opponents with his feints. He is a dribbler and with his speed, we can say that he is a different footballer. If he is motivated and people are with him, he can have a big impact in the [Hero] ISL."
Odisha FC Club President Mr Raj Athwal said, "We are delighted to capture the signing of Aridai after beating off interest from elsewhere to get him. He is a skilful and exciting player, who has knowledge and experience in the game, and will be invaluable to the younger members of our squad."
IFA FINDS A NEW TITTLE SPONSOR
16.08.2021 : Indian Football Association (WB) are now tied up with Sister Nivedita University as the tittle SPONSOR of CFL and other tournaments. This was officially announced at a function today at Kolkata in presence of IFA officials and Chancellor of the University Mr Satyam Roy Chowdhury.
CFL will going to start from 17th August at MOHUN BAGAN ground with the match between Kidderpore FC and Peerless FC. Mr Satyam Roy Chowdhury after signing the agreement with IFA said that "we are happy to sign in such a special day of football."
He elaborated how Techno India Group is dedicated in sports apart from the different vocational courses.Sister Nivedita University is now operating a Sports Management course with a number of enthusiastic students. Techno Group is not new in Kolkata maidan. Techno is associated with Aryan Club and other clubs of Kolkata. .
CHENNAIYIN FC SIGNS DAVINDER SINGH
13.08.21: Chennaiyin FC have completed the signing of 25 year old Indian defender Davinder Singh on a one-year deal until 2022 ahead of the upcoming season. He will return back to the field after missing the last three editions of the ISL with a knee injury suffered ahead of the 2018-19 campaign.
Davinder performances for the India’s U-23 team at the 2018 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Championship qualifiers, had impressed former national team coach Stephen Constantine. Former Punjab University defender earned his senior team debut at 2018 South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship. He has made three international appearances for The Blue Tigers so far.
Davinder debuted in the ISL in 2017-18 with Mumbai City FC. He had nine appearances for the Islanders, including one Super Cup outing. On his debut match against Kerala Blasters FC, the talented right-back was also adjudged the Emerging Player of the Match.
“With Indian players taking up more and more responsibility, we are delighted to further strengthen our defensive department with a prospect such as Davinder,” CFC co-owner Vita Dani commented on club media.
“With Chennaiyin FC’s rich history in the Indian Super League, it is a tremendous honour for me to become a part of this club. The passion of the fans and the club’s family-led ethos made it a very easy decision for me to sign. I am very excited to be working with head coach Boško and my new teammates, some who I have known for years. I have always given my 100% and this season, I am even more determined to bring success back to Chennaiyin FC and my ambition is to make my way back to representing the Indian national team again. I believe this will happen,” the Patiala-born footballer said.
JAMSHEDPUR FC RETAINS PETER HARTLEY
13.08.21: Jamshedpur FC retained defender and their club captain Peter Hartley for one more season in the Indian Super League. The Englishman delivered consistently on the field and secured two Hero-of-the-Match awards in his 19 matches for the club last season.
Strong defender Hartley becomes influential in Jamshedpur defence after he helped Jamshedpur FC to a club record number of clean sheets (9) and ended the 2020-21 season with impressive stats – 52 tackles, 22 interceptions, 72 clearances and 23 blocks. He also scored 2 goals during the campaign.
After signing Hartley expressed his joy, "I had an amazing season with Jamshedpur FC. We made a club record for the number of clean sheets in a season, and I hope we can better that record in the coming season and bring the Hero ISL trophy home,” he said.
Hartley also added regarding Head Coach Owen Coyle’s presence, "We have a fantastic gaffer in Owen Coyle. I am thrilled to continue playing under his guidance and do well for him as well as for the fantastic supporters of Jamshedpur FC," he said.
Head coach Owen Coyle said, “We were mean in defence the previous season and a lot of it was down to how the skipper organised things at the back for us. Like I said when we signed Peter, he is a big player for us who hates conceding goals. He brings with him so much experience from the English and Scottish Leagues, something that evidently rubbed off on to everyone around him. It was essential for Jamshedpur FC to have him again,” he said.
FC GOA SIGNED SPANISH STRIKER AIRAM CABRERA
13.08.21: FC Goa announced the signing of 33 year old Spanish forward Airam Cabrera on a one-year deal.He played various division in Spain and top leagues of Poland (Ekstraklasa) and Cyprus (Protathlima Cyta).
CD Tenerife youth product Cabrera played various Spanish sides, Villarreal B, Cordoba, Numancia, Lugo, Cadiz and Extremadura. In Polish Ekstraklasa he played three clubs, Villarreal B, Cordoba, Numancia, Lugo, Cadiz and Extremadura where he scored 30 goals in his 60 appearances.
Ariam Cabrera said to club media after signing, “I feel good, I feel motivated. I have done my homework and I feel I fit really well with the philosophy that the Club has about football and believe that I have all the tools necessary to succeed here in India.”
FC Goa’s Vice President – Strategy, Ravi Puskur said, “We’re pleased to bring Airam on board. He’s a player we have monitored closely over the years and we have always found him to be an ideal fit for our style of football. His ability to operate between the lines, excellent link-up play and movement along with a good work rate off the ball are all right up there with what we were hoping to bring in this window. We waited for the right profile through the course of the summer and we’re satisfied that we’ve found the profile who can spearhead our attacking efforts next season. We have high hopes for him and I’m confident he will endear himself to the fans with his performances.”
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNED PIECTON BARRETO
13.08.21: Goan forward Beneston Piecton Barretto has signed a two-year contract with I-League champion Gokulam Kerala FC until 2023.
The 23-year-old striker is part of the pre-season camp of Gokulam Kerala FC, being held at Kozhikode and coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese was impressed with his performances in trial.
He started his football journey at a young age and he represented Sporting Clube de Goa. He later moved to Guardian Angel Sports, a club playing in Goa Professional League where he scored six goals in 11 matches in last season.
“I am delighted to be part of the champion team. I am confident that I could bring a positive influence to the team and help Gokulam Kerala FC defend the title,” said Beneston Barretto after signing the contract.
“Our philosophy is to give chances to unearthed talents across the country. The coach was impressed with Barretto’s performance and we believe that he would be as good as our senior team players,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
MOHAMMEDAN SC FELICITATED THE HERO'S OF 1981: ANNOUNCED THE TEAM OF 2021-22 -
13.08.21: Mohammedan Sporting Club and it's stake holder Bunker Hill today felicitated the winners of CFL in 1981 at a gorgeous function at Kolkata today.... GO BELOW
The footballers of the winning team Prasanta Banerjee, Manas Bhattacharya, Aloke Mukherjee, Bhaskar Ganguly, Chinmoy Chatterjee, Tapan Das, Kartik Shett, Bidesh Bose, Ranjit Mukherjee were felicitated on the occasion.
The scorer of the winning goal against Rajastan Club, Manas Bhattacharya unveiled the new jersey of the club which was handed over to the captain of Nikola Stojanovic.
Md Sporting launced their theme song and new website today in presence of the club as well as Bunker Hill officials. Hummel of Denmark is the kit Sponsor of Mohammedan SC.
Md Sporting club the first club to win CFL in 1934.
MOHAMMEDAN SC TEAM SQUAD BELOW :
Goalkeeper : Mithun Samanta, Kabir T, Susanta Mallick, Zothanmawia
Defender: Safiul Rahaman, Lalramchullova, Shaher Shaheen, Wayne Vaz, Sujit Sadhu, Arijeet Singh, Balwinder Singh, Manoj Mohammad, Lalramhmuanmawia
Midfielder : Nikola Stojanovic, Milan Singh, Malsawmzuala, Sushil Meitei, Firoj Ali, Sk Faiaz, Brandon Vanlalremdika, Faisal Ali, Ridge Demello, Sanjib Ghosh
Striker : Marcus Joseph, Stefan Ilic, Jaskaranpreet Singh, Azharuddin Mallick
1981 CFL Squad of Mohammedan SC: Bhaskar Ganguly, Chinmoy Chatterjee, Moidul Islam(Captain), Gouranga Banerjee, Prasun Banerjee, Manas Bhattacharya, Bidesh Bose, Kartik Seth, Ranjit Mukherjee, Ramen Bhattacharya, Kajal Chatterjee, Tapan Das, Balai Mukherjee, Nirmal Chatterjee, Dennis Williams, Samiran Saha, Shamir Mukherjee, Shabbir Ali, Md Akbar, Ashok Chatterjee, Uttam Mukherjee, Amit Guha, Md Aktaruddin, Alok Mukherjee, Shibnath Barui, Prasanta Banerjee
Mumbai City FC confirm a deal with NorthEast United for the transfer of Lalengmawia
13.08.21 : Mumbai City FC are delighted to confirm that the club has agreed a deal with NorthEast United for the transfer of Lalengmawia for an undisclosed fee. The promising young midfielder joins the defending ISL Champions on a five-year contract until May 2026.
Lalengmawia, or Apuia Ralte as he’s fondly known, rose through the ranks of the AIFF Elite Academy and made his name after being the only player from Mizoram to make it to India’s squad for the 2017 FIFA U17 World Cup. After two hugely impressive seasons that followed in the I League with the Indian Arrows, where Apuia made 13 appearances and scored a goal, the central midfielder signed for NorthEast United in the ISL ahead of the 2019-20 campaign.
The 20-year old turned out on 10 occasions in his debut campaign for the Highlanders and stepped it up in the following season, featuring in each of the 22 games and scoring a memorable strike from distance in NorthEast United’s run to the semifinals in the recently concluded 2020-21 season.
Apuia marked a milestone season in his short career as he led out NorthEast United as the youngest captain in ISL history before being named ISL’s Emerging Player of the Season and the FPAI Young Player of the Season for 2020-21. His outstanding performances in the domestic season earned him his first call up to the Indian National Team, as he made his international debut for the Blue Tigers against Oman in a 1-1 draw earlier this year.
With a bright, promising future ahead, Apuia joins Mumbai City ahead of a historic season with a chance to defend both, the ISL League Winners
’ Shield and the ISL Trophy, and represent India at the 2022 AFC Champions League.
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC SIGNED GURTEJ SINGH
11.08.21: Roundglass Punjab FC signed 31 year old defender Gurtej Singh for the upcoming season. This will be 5th signing of Punjab side after Sankar Sampingiraj, Kean Lewis, Robin Singh and Rino Anto.
After starting his career with Pailan Arrows (now Indian Arrows) and Churchill Brothers SC, Gurtej signed for Bengaluru FC in 2013. He joined Fateh Hyderabad FC after 2 years spell with Bengaluru FC and lead the team in 2nd Division League.
In 2017-18 he joined FC Pune City and have a very good season along with Rafael Lopez. Later he joined Hyderabad FC and in last season he played for SC East Bengal.
Gurtej played 42 matches so far in Indian Super League, scored 1 goal and have 1 assist so far.
ODISHA FC SIGNED SPANISH CENTER BACK HECTOR RODAS
11.08.21: Odisha FC today announced the signing of Spanish centre-back Hector Rodas ahead of the eighth season of the Indian Super League
33-year-old Spanish defender Hector started his youth career with Levante before making his senior debut for their reserve team and also with their first team in 2009. He has also played for numerous Spanish teams like Elche, Betis, Cordoba, Cultural Leonesa, Alcorcon. His first stint at a foreign club came in 2017 when he joined Belgian club Cercle Brugge.
After joining Odisha FC, Hector said in club media, "I am extremely happy to join Odisha FC. I am looking forward to meeting my teammates and the coaches and also reaching India for the [Hero] ISL. I want to achieve good things at OFC and we all will work towards one common goal. Come on Odisha!"
Head coach Kiko Ramirez stated: "Hector is going to give us the defensive balance that we need to improve the tactical game of the team. He is an experienced player who played in the first division in Spain and knows how to command the defensive line. He is also an aggressive player in defending and can help us in taking good decisions during the game for the build-up. He is a winner in a duel with the ball in the air and he will give us power in set-pieces both in attack and in defence."
Welcoming Hector to Odisha FC, Club President Mr Raj Athwal said, "We are very pleased to have captured the signature of Hector Rodas. Having played at the highest level in Europe we are looking forward to seeing him show his great qualities in an Odisha shirt."
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC SIGNED RINO ANTO, ROBIN SINGH
10.08.21: Roundglass Punjab FC confirmed the signing of experienced striker Robin Singh and defender Rino Anto for the upcoming season.
31 year old Tata Football Academy product Robin Singh have a good spell with East Bengal and Bengaluru FC in I-League. Then he moved to Indian Super League side and played for several teams like Delhi Dynamos, FC Goa, ATK, FC Pune City, Hyderabad FC. During his time in Indian Super League he played 59 matches and scored 11 goals and also have 4 assists. In last season he played for Real Kashmir FC on loan for Hyderabad FC. So far he made 75 appearances in I-League and scored 19 goals. He also represent India in 24 games where he scored 4 goals.
33 year old Tata Football Academy product Rino Anto played a long spell with Bengaluru FC, where he won I-League and Federation Cup. Later he joined ATK and Kerala Blasters FC before returning back to Bengaluru FC. He made 39 appearances in Indian Super League and made 3 assists and 57 appearances in I-League so far and scored 1 goal.
NEROCA FC SIGNED JUAN MERA
08.08.21: Neroca FC signed 27 year old Spanish midfielder Juan Mera. They also signed three young stars Ayush Kumar Singh, Madan Saiprasad Ghogale and Hrishikesh Namboothiri.
Spanish midfielder Juan Mera previously played for East Bengal in 2019-20 season where he made 16 appearances and scored 2 goals.
Ayush is a product of Elite Tech Football Academy, Blackpool, United Kingdom. Madan played Torrox Cup in Spain and Reliance Championship. Hrishikesh is a product of German Football Academy.
5 FOOTBALLERS SIGNED IN DIFFERENT ISL SIDE - GO BELOW.
1.Chinglensana Singh signed a new long-term deal with Hyderabad FC
Chinglensana Singh signed a new long-term deal with Hyderabad FC, the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) club announced on Thursday. The 24-year-old defender who joined Hyderabad FC in September 2020, has penned a new four-year contract which keeps him at Hyderabad till the end of the 2024-25 season.
“Knowing the positive atmosphere at the club, and admiration from the fans that enjoy and love football, it feels great to extend my contract at Hyderabad FC,” I believe that my peak years are ahead of me.said an excited Chinglensana, who made 18 consecutive league starts last season.
For HFC Head Coach Manuel Marquez, Sana, as he is commonly known, fits in well with the team’s style, and he believes that the experience the defender gained from the 2020-21 season will help him improve further this season.
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2. Odisha FC have signed a loan deal of young Indian midfielder Nikhil Raj
Odisha FC have reached an agreement with Kickstart FC over a loan deal of young Indian midfielder Nikhil Raj who will now play for the Bhubaneswar-based side during the upcoming eighth edition of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL).
The 20-year-old has been a part of the Karnataka team in two editions of the Santosh Trophy and was awarded the best midfielder in the BDFA Super Division last season. He went on loan to the Indian Arrows and made nine appearances for them in the previous season of the Hero I-League.
Expressing his delight, Nikhil said, “I am very happy. I am very excited to play in the [Hero] Indian Super League. I expect to learn a lot of things there, and I know it's a big opportunity for me. I am very excited to play for Odisha FC.”
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3. Chennaiyin FC (CFC) have completed the signing of defender Slavko Damjanovic
Two-time Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) champions Chennaiyin FC (CFC) have completed the signing of defender Slavko Damjanovic on one-year deal ahead of the 2021-22 season.
With 151 club appearances in his nine-year-long career as professional footballer, the left-footed centre-back will provide much-needed stability to the club’s backline. Standing tall at 6 ft 2, the Serbian could also prove to be a potential attacking threat from set-pieces.
The 28-year-old began his professional career with FK Spartak Subotica in the Serbian league in 2012-13. Slavko has also played in Hungary, Uzbekistan and South Africa. He returned to Serbia after five years in 2020-21, joining FK TSC Backa Topola where he made 11 appearances, also netting one goal.
“Slavko is a highly tactical player, and his inclusion is certain to give the team more stability from the back to the front,” CFC head coach Bozidar Bandovic said.
In his maiden Hero ISL campaign, Slavko will look to help CFC lift the coveted trophy for the third time. The Marina Machans have previously won the title in 2015 and 2017-18.
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4.Jamshedpur FC have successfully signed Seiminlen Doungel on a permanent deal
Jamshedpur FC have successfully signed Seiminlen Doungel on a permanent deal after his solid performances in the second half of the 2020-21 Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) season, including a Hero-of-the-match award in 8 appearances with the club. The Manipur-born winger will ply his trade for Jamshedpur FC till May 2024, having signed a 3-year contract with the Jharkhand-based side.
The 27-year-old was delighted after the deal. “Jamshedpur FC have the ambition to do well in the [Hero] ISL. The gaffer [Owen Coyle] is extremely committed to qualifying for the play-offs [semis] and try to win the league for the first time. I want to create history with the club. I am glad to continue as I had the coach’s faith in me and I want to play as much as I can to contribute to help the club achieve silverware,” he said.
Fondly known as Len, the winger, who has also represented the Indian national team, brings with him a trophy-winning pedigree, having previously won the Hero I-League in 2015-16 and Federation Cup in 2012 and 2017. He was a runner-up in the AFC Cup in 2016 and also played an important role in the FC Goa team that finished top of the league in the 2019-20 Hero ISL season, thereby helping them become the League Shield Winners.
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5. Mumbai City FC has signed Hmingthanmawia
Mumbai City FC are delighted to announce that Hmingthanmawia has agreed to a four-year contract extension, committing his future with the Islanders until May 2025.
After representing his home state of Mizoram at the sub-junior level, Hmingthanmawia signed his first professional contract with Aizawl FC in 2016 where he turned out for both, their junior and senior sides. Popularly known as Valpuia, he was roped in by the Islanders ahead of the 2019-20 season, following a strong campaign in the Hero I-league for Aizawl FC.
Hmingthanmawia made his debut for Mumbai City FC in October 2019 against Odisha FC at the Mumbai Football Arena and made his first start later in the season versus NorthEast United FC, again at the home of the Islanders. Having featured in four matches in his debut Hero ISL season, the 21-year-old defender is yet to make his first appearance under Sergio Lobera.
Gokulam Kerala FC have signed Indian team winger Soumya Guguloth for the upcoming season.
06.08.21: The 20-year-old winger from Telengana has been with the Indian under-17, under-19 teams and made her senior debut last year. She was the captain of the under-17 Indian team that participated in the BRICS Tournament.
Soumya is a speedy player and is also known for her knack to score goals. She has been impressed with the senior Indian team and is considered a prospect.
“I am glad to be with the Gokulam Kerala FC. It is a great opportunity for me to take part in the maiden AFC Women’s Club Competition, and the IWL with the team. I am looking forward to joining the team camp going to be held in Kozhikode,” said Soumya.
“Soumya is a talented player, who can be deployed on both the wings and also as a striker. We are building a strong team for the AFC Club Competition and IWL. We hope she can excel in Gokulam colors,” said Priya PV, the head coach of Gokulam Kerala FC.
“We are concentrating more on young players and building a good team. For players like Soumya, this will be a great opportunity to showcase their ability in an international competition. We wish her all the best,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
LEONCE DODOZ signed in IFA CFL PREMIER A side BSS SC
05.08.21: Ivory Coast Footballer Leonce Dodoz has signed in IFA CFL PREMIER A side BSS SC in the season. Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast), Leonce Dodoz started his career at Ivorian club JC Abidjan, then moved to Nepal in 2012 with Friends Club. Next season Dodoz joined Three Star Club of Nepal and won the Nepal Football League in his debut season. Dodoz also has the experience of playing in the Vietnamese V-League.
In 2015 Dodoz joined to play in Gangtok Himalayan SC in the Second Division League and awarded as top scorer in the League. Then he Moved to Kolkata Giant Mohammedan SC . After playing in IFA CFL PREMIER - A side Peerless SC in 2017 he moved to Mizoram and their he played for I-League Champion Aizawl FC and its rivals Chanmari FC abd won the Mizoram Premier League
Last Season he played in IFA CFL PREMIER-A side Bhowanipur SC
2014–2015 Manang Marshyangdi
2015–2016 Gangtok Himalayan
2016–2017 Mohammedan SC
2017–2019 Aizawl FC
2019–2020 Bhawanipore FC
SREENIDHI DECCAN FC SIGNED FREDSAN MARSHALL
04.08.21: New I-League side Sreenidhi Deccan FC confirmed signing of Goan midfielder Fredsan Marshall for the upcoming season.
Fredsan played for Churchill Brothers since 2018-19 season. Fredsan have played 18 matches in I-League so far and scored 1 goal.
Earlier Sreenidhi Deccan FC also announced the signing of forward MC Malsawmzuala. He played 13 I-League matches with Aizawl FC and scored 2 goals so far.
CHENNAIYIN FC SIGNED DEEPAK DEVRANI
04.08.21: Chennaiyin FC have signed 28 year old defender Deepak Devrani on a one-year deal ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League season. Deepak won I-League three times in his career.
Deepak won I-League with Gokulam Kerala FC in last season and featured in the I-League team of the season with a excellent performance throughout the season.
Deepak played for FC Pune City in 2014.He will be joining another ISL side after 7 years. Starting his professional career with Arrows, Deepak played for Mohun Bagan, Minerva Punjab FC, TRAU FC, Sporting Goa. During his time with Mohun Bagan and Minerva Punjab FC he also won I-League.He also represent Indian in U16, U19, U23 categories.
Delhi boy spend hisbyouth career with East Bengal before joining Indian Arrows in 2012-13 season. He so far made 74 I-League appearances.
“I am extremely delighted about joining Chennayin FC. It is a very strong team, very promising and I very much look forward to joining my teammates. It feels amazing. It is a leap that I've taken and I'm all set to put my best foot forward in every game,” Devrani said in club media.
“The plan is always to win the trophy and the shield. Winning the [Hero] ISL trophy would mean a third one for Chennayin FC and a first one for me. That would be perfect and I am ready to put in the hard work required to achieve the same,” Devrani further added
“Someone who has come off as a key asset in a title winning campaign of the [Hero] I-league last season [winner with Gokulam Kerala] will be eager to take that one step above in the [Hero] ISL. We are happy to enable him in that endeavour,” CFC co-owner Vita Dani said.
MOHAMMEDAN SC SIGNED BRANDON VANLALREMDIKA
03.08.21: Mohammedan SC today signed 27 year old midfielder Brandon Vanlalremdika for the upcoming season.
Former Aizawl FC, East Bengal midfielder played 76 matches in I-League so far and scored 10 goals and also have 2 assists. He won I-League with Aizawl FC in 2016-17 season and later joined East Bengal. After having 3 season with East Bengal, Brandon returned back to Aizawl FC. During his time at East Bengal he won Calcutta Football League Premier A division in 2017-18 season.
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC SIGNED KEAN LEWIS
02.08.21: Roundglass Punjab FC signed 28 year old midfielder Kean Lewis for the upcoming season.
Kean Lewis played for Delhi based I-League side Sudeva FC in the last season. Kean Lewis started his youth career with PIFA then joined the Mahindra United academy where he played at various youth levels, before joining the Tata Football Academy in 2008.
He made his Indian Super League debut with Delhi Dynamos in 2016, then played FC Pune City and Bengaluru FC upto 2019-20 season before joining Sudeva last season. He also played for Mohun Bagan.
He played 41 matches in Indian Super League and scored 4 goals and made 3 assists.He also played 21 matches in I-League where he scored 2 goals and made 2 assists. He also played AFC Cup, Federation Cup, Super Cup.
MOHAMMEDAN SC SIGNED WAYNE VAZ
02.08.21: Mohammedan SC signed defender 27 year old defender Wayne Vaz for the upcoming season. He played for NorthEast United in last two season.
He played for several top clubs including Chennai City FC, FC Pune City, Churchill Brothers. He made his Indian Super League debut with NorthEast United FC in 2019-20 season where he played 10 matches.
ARYAN CLUB SIGNED SADDAM HUSSIAN MONDAL
02.08.21: Aryan Club today confirmed the signing of Bengal Santosh Trophy midfielder Saddam Hussain Mondal for the upcoming season. Earlier they also announced the signing of midfielder Dip Saha.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Laltu Mondal, Subrata Santra, Subhojit Saha
Defender: Kareem Omoloja, Snehasish Dutta, Prabhakar Naskar, Shanid Valan, Shavavas P, Faruk Hussian, Nasil Saleem E M
Midfielder: Saddam Hussian Mondal, Dip Saha, Tanmoy Kundu, Alfred Jaryan, Prosenjit Chakraborty, Shamshad Ali, Rakesh Karmakar, Sandip Oraon, Akash Dave, Surya Tirkey, Robinson Singh, Vishnu T M
Striker: Luntinmang Haokip, Sudheesh A Kuttan
Coach: Suman Ghosal
Physio: Kuntal Chakraborty
Chennaiyin FC (CFC) have signed Mirlan Murzaev on a one-year deal
01.08.21: Two-time Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) champions Chennaiyin FC (CFC) have signed Mirlan Murzaev on a one-year deal. The forward becomes the first Kyrgyz player to feature in India’s premier football league.
The six-feet tall striker is the second international recruit for the Chennai-based franchise ahead of the 2021-22 season. The addition of Mirlan will bolster CFC’s frontline with Jobby Justin and Rahim Ali already part of the squad.
“I'm just very very happy to join Chennaiyin FC. I can’t wait for the training, and season to start. I look forward to representing all the fans from Tamil Nadu,” the 31-year-old said.
An experienced campaigner, Mirlan is currently the top goal-scorer for Kyrgyzstan and also the second most capped player with 48 international appearances. Mirlan had struck a hattrick last month against Myanmar during Kyrgyzstan’s 8-1 victory in the qualifying match for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
“As a leading scorer of his national team and with 100-plus career goals, the signing of Mirlan gives us a significant attacking boost and solidity in the front. We are pleased to welcome the first-ever player from Kyrgyzstan to Chennaiyin FC and the [Hero] ISL,” CFC co-owner Vita Dani said.
In 2009, Mirlan had visited India during the Nehru Cup in New Delhi and also scored a goal against the hosts. His second goal against India came in Kyrgyzstan’s 2-1 win in Bishkek in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Qualification match.
Kerala Blasters FC sign Bosnian defender Enes Sipovic
01.08.21: Kerala Blasters FC is delighted to announce the signing of Bosnia and Herzegovina central defender Enes Sipovic ahead of the 2021/22 Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) season. The towering 6’6” defender joins Kerala Blasters FC after a one-year stint with fellow Hero ISL club Chennaiyin FC.
After advancing through the youth ranks of Bosnian Club Zeljeznicar in Sarajevo, Sipovic joined the Romanian club, SC Otelul Galati. In his debut season, he won the 2010-11 Romanian top-division championship title with SC Otelul Galati. After 6 successful seasons at Otelul Galati, Sipovic enjoyed stints at K.V.C. Westerlo (Belgium), Ittihad Tanger & RS Berkane (Morocco), and Ohod Club (Saudi Arabia). He then returned home for a brief spell at his boyhood club FK Zeljeznicar. Before turning out for Chennaiyin FC last season, he played for Umm Salal in Qatar. Sipovic featured regularly for Chennaiyin FC, playing 18 matches in the Hero ISL last season.
A former Bosnia and Herzegovina U-21 international, Sipovic will become the first Bosnian player to don the yellow shirt.
Sipovic commented: “I am so excited to join one of the biggest clubs in India, with an army of amazing fans. I must say that, my actions speak for myself, so on the field I will be LOUD.”
Sipovic becomes the second foreign signing at Kerala Blasters FC joining Uruguayan midfielder Adrian Luna whose arrival was announced last week.
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC SIGNED SANKAR SAMPINGIRAJ
31.7.21: Chennai City FC's holding midfielder, Shankar Sampingiraj joins Round Glass Punjab FC on a 2-year-deal until 2023. This is the first signing of the season by Round Glass Punjab FC.
26 year old Sankar played several top clubs including Bengaluru FC, ATK, FC Pune City, Hyderabad FC, Kerala Blasters, Pailan Arrows. He played 32 matches in I-League and scored 3 goals so far.
ODISHA FC SIGNED JAVIER HERNANDEZ
30.7.21: Odisha FC signed Spanish attacking midfielder Javi Hernandez ahead of the upcoming season.
Javi signed for ATK FC in 2019 and continue with newly formed ATK Mohun Bagan in next season. 32-year-old Spaniard started his youth career at CDF Pizarrales, Salamanca, and Real Madrid. Later he played various Spanish club including Real Madrid B, later he also played at Romania, Poland, Azerbaijan before moving to ISL.
Javi played 37 matches in Indian Super League where he scored 3 goals and made 6 assists.
Odisha FC Head Coach Kiko Ramirez commented, “Javi is a great addition to the squad, he is going to give us work in the midfield, and balance to the team. The most important thing is that even playing in midfield, he is a player who can score goals due to his physical capabilities and his good technique. He is a good player to play different styles of football, and he has a very good shot. From set-pieces, he is a great kicker, both for direct scoring and for strategy plays. He is loved in the teams where he has been for his work ethic, for his enthusiasm, and for his character.”
After joining Odisha FC, Javi expressed, "I am really excited to join Odisha FC and very happy to continue playing in India. I am looking forward to meeting my teammates and we will definitely work hard and play well to make sure that we have a wonderful season ahead. I want to make the Odisha FC fans proud."
Speaking about the new signing, Odisha FC Club President Mr Raj Athwal said, "We are delighted to welcome Javi Hernandez to the Odisha family. In Javi, we have added another highly-rated player, who has experience of winning the Hero ISL, to our squad."
HYDERABAD FC SIGNED NIM DORJEE TAMANG, GURMEET SINGH
30.7.21: Indian Super League side Hyderabad FC have completed the signings of defender Nim Dorjee Tamang and goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh on a 3 year deal until 2024.
Shillong Lajong product Nim Dorjee played 45 matches for the I-League side before moving to FC Pune City in 2017-18. He made his Indian Super League debut with FC Pune City in 2018-19 season and appeared in six matches. He moved to NorthEast United in 2019-20 season. Center back who can also fill in at right-back, Nim Dorjee played 18 matches so far in Indian Super League where he made 2 assists.
“I am really excited to be a part of Hyderabad FC, a team which has good young and experienced players. The club has played top-quality football last season and I am delighted to be a part of the club’s journey,” said the 25-year-old Nim Dorjee Tamang after completing his move.
21 year old goalkeeper Gurmeet has spent the last three seasons with NorthEast United. He made 8 appearances in last season's Indian Super League keeping two clean sheets.
“I am grateful to the club for providing me this opportunity. As a young player, seeing others my age flourish here makes this a really important project for me. It is a very important season for us at Hyderabad FC. We will look to build on the campaign last season and I am sure we as a team are ready for the challenges” said Gurmeet.
“Gurmeet is a good goalkeeper and someone who can become one of the best in India soon. He is young but has experience, is quick with his movements in goal, trains hard, and wants to improve in every session. Nim Dorjee is a defender who can play as a centre-back or as a full-back. He also has good positioning and played at a high level last season.As a coach, you want youngsters like these, who can play in different positions which is really crucial for us this season,” said head coach Manolo Márquez.
This is Hyderabad FC's five young Indian arrivals after Aniket Jadhav, Aaren D’Silva and Abdul Rabeeh.
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNED RITU RANI
30.7.21: Gokulam Kerala FC have signed 24 year old midfielder Ritu Rani for the upcoming season. Ritu Rani is the first signing of Gokulam Kerala FC Women's team in this season.
Gokulam Kerala FC will be participating in the AFC Women’s Club Championship to be held at Amman in Jordan in November 2021.
Central midfielder from Haryana played Indian Women's League with his home town club FC Alakhpur. He maidan call up for Indian Senior National team was in 2017 in FIFA friendly match at Malaysia. After come back from an injury he is now represented India in several matches. One of his significant tournament was 13th South Asian Games held in Nepal in 2019 where he made 5 assists.
“We are glad to sign Ritu Rani. We believe with players like Ritu, we will be able to mount a challenge in the AFC Club Championship. We are going to start our training camp early in Kerala and we believe with good preparation, we would be able to perform well in the tournament and make a strong team for the upcoming IWL,” said Priya PV, the head coach of Gokulam Kerala FC.
“We are aiming at signing players like Ritu Rani, who are potential. We also have decided to give more chances to young players and build a strong team for both the AFC Cup and the IWL. We are also targeting very experienced foreigners, who could make a change to the game,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
MUMBAI CITY FC SIGNED STRIKER IGOR ANGULO
30.7.21: Reigning ISL League Winners’ and Champions Mumbai City FC announced the arrival of 37 year old Spanish striker Igor Angulo for the upcoming season. Igor signed one year contract with Indian Super League side after a good spell with FC Goa.
Igor started his career with Athletic Bilbao in Spain, has experience of playing in several other countries like France, Cyprus and Greece. In his first season in FC Goa he scored 14 goals in 21 matches to bag the Golden Boot award.
Igor Angulo said, “It’s an honour to join the champions Mumbai City and to be a part of a club that has grand ambitions and wants to fight for titles. I have spent one season in India so far and my experience of the ISL has been incredible. But my focus remains on what I set out to do everywhere I’ve played - I want to win the league.
The club’s mentality and the coach Sergio Lobera’s philosophy fits right with the way I want to play football too and I am delighted to be here. We have a massive season ahead of us. It will be an honour to defend both our trophies and represent India in the AFC Champions League and I’m ready for the challenge. I cannot wait to get started with my new family and represent our fans and the city of Mumbai in the best way we can.”
Head coach Sergio Lobera said, "Igor is a veteran campaigner and a class act on and off the field. We’ve seen his goalscoring prowess in the previous seasons and how dangerous he can be for the opposition. He is someone who will bring a lot of valuable experience along with his skill and we are confident he can help us and bring the best out of the players playing alongside him. His understanding of the game and his guile on a football pitch will be an asset for us in this historic season that lies ahead of us. I am really pleased to have Igor with us at Mumbai City.
SUDEVA FC SIGNED LALAWMPUIA
29.7.21: Delhi based I-League side Sudeva FC signed 21 year old young forward Lalawmpuia Ralte on loan from Indian Super League side Hyderabad FC.
Pune FC academy product Lalawmpuia started his senior career with Pune FC, later with DSK Shivajians. He then move to FC Goa Development team in 2017, where he played for U18 team, reserve team and senior team. He holds the experience of playing in 2nd Division I-League, Indian Super League, Durand Cup & Federation Cup.
He played 19 games in 2nd Division I-League and scored 6 goals. He made his ISL debut with Hyderabad FC during the 2020-21 season.
MOHAMMEDAN SC SIGNED MILAN SINGH
29.7.21: Mohammedan SC rope in experienced midfielder Milan Singh Ongnam for the upcoming season.
29 year old midfielder played for SC East Bengal in last season. After starting his career with Pailan Arrows, later with Shillong Lajong he joined NorthEast United in the inaugural season of India Super League. After that he was picked up by Delhi Dynamos FC in 2016, later Kerala Blasters FC in the 2017-18 campaign, Mumbai City FC in the 2018-19 season and returned back to NorthEast United for the 2019-20 season before joining SC East Bengal last season.
He played 71 matches in Indian Super League so far where in his 4650 minutes display he scored 2 goals and made 1 assist with passing accuracy 71.78%.
GREEN AND MAROON SUPPORTERS HAVE HONOURED ME: ROY KRISHNA
29.7.21: ATK Mohun Bagan finally announces the extension of agreement with Roy Krishna on the historic day of 29th of July. Roy Krishna proved himself as one of the successful striker in Indian football in the recent times extend his agreement for yet another year.
In the recently concluded Indian Super League the 33 years old Fijian striker, Roy Krishna the winner of 'GOLDEN BOOT', scored 14 goals with 8 assists in 23 matches he played. He was the joint top scorer with Igor Augulo of FC Goa who scored 14 goals in 21 matches. The heartthrob of ATK Mohun Bagan supporters scored goals in both the ISL derbies against the arch rival SC East Bengal.
After signing for the third term in Indian football a truly delighted Roy Krishna told the club media, “I am honoured to declare on a special day that I will be on the field again wearing the Green-Maroon jersey. I hope the members-supporters of the club will be happy and will support me like before.”
Roy Krishna thanked the principal owner of ATK MB, Sanjiv Goenka and the club management for assure him and his family safety in the Covid situation. The Fijian was a bit hesitant to come in India owing to Covid pandemic.
While answering to the club media, Roy Krishna said, "The love of members and supporters of the club and the people of Kolkata has made India my second home. I will play under the coaching of Antonio Habas for three years in a row now. This is a good aspect because we have known each other for long. It shows the foresightedness of the club management. They respect our hard work. Like last time, Coach and all of us will work together again. Despite playing well last season, we could not win the trophy. But all that is past now. I want to look ahead. I have to play in the AFC Cup. We have a great opportunity to establish the club in Asia. I am confident we will do well in this tournament."
This will be the first time that Roy Krishna will be playing in the AFC Cup. He said, “For the first time in my life, I will play in the AFC Cup. All the teams will be well prepared for this tournament. We will also try our best to win all the matches. Our goal will be to go to the next round. I am hopeful to join the club’s practice very soon and give my best in Maldives.”
Roy Krishna is the third overseas footballer after Joni Kauko and Hugo Boumous to sign in favour of ATK Mohun Bagan.
BIDYASAGAR SINGH JOINS BENGALURU FC
28.7.21: Bidyasagar Singh, the top scorer of I League signs a three years deal with ISL club Bengaluru FC. This was officially announced by the club in a press release.
Bidyashagar, who came through the Tiddim Road Athletic Union FC youth system, joined East Bengal in 2016. He first came into prominence when he took the Kolkata side’s U18 team to the finals of the 2016-17 U18 I-League, scoring six goals, including in both semifinals and final. He was promoted to the senior team and made his mark in the 2019 Durand Cup, even scoring twice in a 2-1 win over the Blues in the group stage.
The Head Coach of Bengaluru FC, Marco Pezzaiuoli in his massage said, “Bidyashagar is a young player with a lot of potential. He is very eager to learn and make the next step and in the short time that he has been with us, he has shown us that he has the ability to score goals. The important thing now is to make sure he can bring his quality into our team and do that in the Indian Super League. He can play as a striker, as a winger and in behind the striker, which gives us a lot of options in attack,”
FC Bengaluru United Appoint Former India Goalkeeper VP Sathiesh Kumar As Goalkeeping Coach
27.07.2021 - Press Release: FC Bengaluru United have appointed former India goalkeeper VP Sathiesh Kumar as goalkeeping coach for the first team, as they look to bolster their defence ahead of the I-League qualifiers in September. Kumar will work closely with the first team goalkeepers to further strengthen their on-field performance as well as mentor and develop future goalkeepers.
Commenting on his appointment, Kumar said, “I am really happy to be part of the FC Bengaluru United family. The club is run very professionally, and they have a clear goal – to be playing in the top tier of Indian football. What really sets the club apart is how they are laying emphasis on youth development. This sort of clear focus is great - not just for the club, but for the state and Indian football as well.”
The thirty-seven-year-old Kumar brings with him the invaluable experience of being part of and contributing to winning teams during the course of his career – both as a player and as a coach. Kumar won multiple National Football League and I-League titles as a player with East Bengal and Dempo SC. He was part of a similar success story when he was a member of the coaching staff at Chennai City FC when they became I-League champions during the 2018-19 season.
“My primary objective as a goalkeeping coach is to clearly define the role and responsibilities of my goalkeepers,” said Kumar. This will help them in their objective: to not concede any goals in any game and keep a clean sheet. They will also have to contribute to the attack and defence strategies of the team as a whole. Clear role definition will help achieve both these goals.”
Head Coach Richard Hood welcomed the appointment of Kumar to his coaching staff as the team prepares to enter a crucial phase before the beginning of the new domestic season.
“Sathiesh is a fantastic addition to the coaching staff in terms of being a contributor to the kind of football that we want to play here,” said Hood. “He understands our objectives and the process that we aim to follow to achieve them. His involvement will not only help our goalkeepers improve, but his winning mentality and championship experience will help the rest of the team as well.”
SOUTHERN SAMITY SIGNED MOJAFFAR ALI
27.07.2021 : Southern Samity announced the signing of 28 year old midfielder Mojaffar Ali for the upcoming season.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Arnab Das Sharma, Praveen Patel
Defender: Abhishek Das, Sanathoi Singh, Sk. Moghlesur Rahaman, Sonam Zangpo Bhutia, Kunal Tamang, Pranit Lama
Midfielder: Laltu Hembram, Subhankar Dey, Gunajit Singh, Imran Khan, Sayan Dutta, Waseem Rahaman, Sheen Stevensen Shokhtung, Lalawmpuia Hnamte, Mojaffar Ali
Striker: Ashim Biswas, Princewill Emeka, Basanta Singh, Peter Seiminthang Haokip, Amarendu Chakraborty, Elminho Kilong
Coach: Biswajit Bhattacharyya
SUJIT SADHU EXTENDS HIS STAY
27.07.2021 : 28 year old center back Sujit Sadhu extends his stay with Mohammedan SC for one more year.
Sujit joined Mohammedan Sporting club ahead of 2019-20 season and played 2nd Division League, I-League qualifier, I-League, Durand Cup, Calcutta Football League with Mohammedan SC. He made 7 appearances in last I-League and scored 2 goals. He scored with an excellent shot after trailing a goal against Chennai City FC in last season's I-League
SREENIDI DECCAN FC SIGNED MIDFIELDER SURAJ RAWAT
27.07.2021 : Vizag based new I-League side Sreenidi Deccan Football Club announced the signing of 22 year old midfielder Suraj Rawat for the upcoming season. Suraj played for Mohammedan SC in the last season.
Royal Wahingdoh product Suraj played for Kerala Blasters Reserve side and later promoted to Kerala Blasters senior team. He later played for Indian Arrows before joining to Mohammedan SC. During his time Mohammedan SC promoted to I-League after winning I-League Qualifier.
He made 15 appearances in I-League where he scored 1 goals and also made 2 appearances in Indian Super League so far.
ODISHA FC SIGNED VICTOR MONGIL
26.07.2021 : Odisha FC signed former ATK center back Victor Mongil ahead of the upcoming season.The experienced centre-back signed for ATK FC in the January transfer window of the 2019-20 season of the ISL in which the Kolkata-based side clinched the title.
29 year old Spanish defender started his youth career with Spanish club Valladolid , then represent their B team and also senior team. He also played for Atletico de Madrid B team before moving to Georgian professional club FC Dinamo Tbilisi in 2019 where he won the title in Georgia and also represented the club in the UEFA Europa League. After one season in ISL he again return back to FC Dinamo Tbilisi. He also represent Spanish U17 team.
In his message after joining the Club, Victor expressed in club media, "I am very excited and happy to join Odisha Football Club. I am looking forward to having a wonderful time on the pitch for OFC and will definitely make the fans feel proud. C'mon Odisha, see you soon."
Club President Mr. Raj Athwal said, "We are very pleased to have secured the signature of Victor Mongil. A ball playing centre-back, he reads the game well and has a winning mentality having won the league twice while at Dinamo Tbilisi and in the Indian Super League with ATK FC. Having played in Europe and the UEFA Europa League, Victor will bring stability and experience to our defence and will be a major influence on our younger players."
Odisha FC's new Head Coach Kiko Ramirez stated, "One of the most important reasons why we approached him is that he is a versatile player and can play in various positions. He has great vision of the game (especially for long passes), is a great defender, who can play in all positions of the defensive line, and he also can act as a defensive midfielder giving balance to the team. Another important aspect is that he knows the League because he has won it, and has an advantage to help new players to adapt to the competition. He is also a very competitive player and creates a good atmosphere in the locker room."
HYDERABAD FC SIGNED FORMER BENGALURU FC CENTER BACK JUANAN
26.07.2021 : Hyderabad FC have completed the signing of Spanish defender Juan Antonio Gonzalez, popularly known as "Juanan" with one year deal. 34 year old Juanan joined Manuel Marquez’s side after spending 5 years with Bengaluru FC.
During his five-year stint in India with Bengaluru FC, Juanan has won the Federation Cup (2017), Super Cup (2018) and Indian Super League (2018-19), apart from a runner-up finish in the AFC Cup (2016). He also finished top of the ISL League Phase twice (2017-18 & 2018-19). During that time he made 71 ISL appearances with 5 goals.
“I am delighted to have signed for Hyderabad FC. I saw how the team put on a strong show last season in the ISL. I spoke to Manuel and other players about the team, and I think we have a strong side this season to get to the semis. Manuel is very good, as a coach and as a person. Everyone has seen the work he has put in with the team last season. His idea is very clear, and he wants his team to play with the ball in every situation. The team has always put up a fight at all times and everyone could see that,” said Juanan in club media after completing formalities.
“Juanan’s experience is very important because we have very good young defenders in our team, and he can help them. Not too many players have played in India consistently over five seasons,” said the Hyderabad FC Head Coach.
Juanan becomes the third new foreign signing at Hyderabad FC in this season joining Bartholomew Ogbeche and Edu Garcia, while becoming the sixth new arrival following Indian youngsters Aaren D’Silva, Abdul Rabeeh and Aniket Jadhav.
CHENNAIYIN FC SIGNED JOBBY JUSTIN
25.07.2021 : Chennaiyin FC signed striker Jobby Justin on a 2 years deal until 2023 after he is released by ATK Mohun Bagan.
27 year old Jobby came into limelight after his fine performance with East Bengal in I-League and Calcutta Football League. During this season he scored 9 goals in I-League, to be the top scorer of that season. He made his ISL debut with ATK FC in their title-winning campaign of 2019-20 making 10 appearances that season. But he was ruled out with a ligament injury for the entirety last season.
“I am really happy to receive an offer from a renowned club like Chennaiyin FC. Being a South Indian, I always wanted to play for a south-based team and when a prestigious club like Chennaiyin FC came calling, it was an easy decision for me. I have a lot of expectations lined up with this signing and the most important one is being a part of the first team. Another important one will be to shower the club with as many achievements as I can. Finally, I would love to express all my love and gratitude to my family, friends and most importantly to my fans who stood by me throughout my highs and lows” Justin exclaimed in club media.
“Jobby’s signing boosts an area that we were lacking in last season. We are happy to have an Indian player with such attacking intent and I am sure he will fit in seamlessly in our family,” CFC co-owner Vita Dani said.
ISL side Bengaluru FC rope in Kashmiri frontman Danish Farooq
25/07/2021: BFC PRESS RELEASE : Bengaluru FC, on Sunday, announced the signing of Danish Farooq on a two-year contract. The 25-year-old attacker, who is the first player from Jammu and Kashmir to sign for the club, has joined the Blues ahead of their upcoming AFC Cup playoff stage clash against Eagles FC.
Danish spent his youth career playing for the J&K; Bank football academy, where he wore the armband across age groups and led them to as many as 12 titles. His performances earned him a move to Lonestar Kashmir in the I-League second division, and a season later to Real Kashmir.
"BFC is one of the best clubs in the country, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to be a part of it. My immediate challenge is to do well in the AFC Cup and the Indian Super League. My ultimate goal is to achieve success with the club and to grow as a player," said Danish.
An attacking player by trade, the Kashmir-born player is adept at playing on the flank and has previously turned out in midfield. Having amassed as many as 48 appearances over the last three seasons in the I-League, Farooq has registered seven goals and five assists in that time. With Farooq in attack, Real Kashmir clinched the first major domestic title in the club’s history by winning the 2020 IFA Shield.
Farooq’s acquisition marks the Blues’ seventh signing of the summer, ahead of their AFC Cup Playoff clash against Club Eagles FC on August 15th, in Maldives.
ARYAN CLUB ANNOUNCED 4 MORE SIGNINGS
24.7.21: Aryan Club announced 4 more signings ahead of the upcoming CFL Premier A season. They are - midfielder Tanmoy Kundu, side back Nasil Saleem E M, midfielder Vishnu T M, goal keeper Subhojit Saha
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Laltu Mondal, Subrata Santra, Subhojit Saha
Defender: Kareem Omoloja, Snehasish Dutta, Prabhakar Naskar, Shanid Valan, Shavavas P, Faruk Hussian, Nasil Saleem E M
Midfielder: Tanmoy Kundu, Alfred Jaryan, Prosenjit Chakraborty, Shamshad Ali, Rakesh Karmakar, Sandip Oraon, Akash Dave, Surya Tirkey, Robinson Singh, Vishnu T M
Striker: Luntinmang Haokip, Sudheesh A Kuttan
Coach: Suman Ghosal
Physio: Kuntal Chakraborty
BSS SC ANNOUNCED 15 MORE SIGNINGS
24.7.21: CFL Premier A side BSS SC announced 15 more signings - midfielder Sourav Roy, goalkeeper Partha Mondal, side back Suvam Singh, striker Asit Hembram, midfielder Pritam Roy, goalkeeper Sayantan Pyne, defender Kartick Das, side back Karan Thapa, winger Sunil Karmakar, winger Soumitra Dey, midfielder Kunal Ghosh, midfielder Goutam Khujur, left back Amod Mahato, right back Toton Das and midfielder Sajal Bag for the upcoming season.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Priyant Singh, Sourav Chakraborty, Partha Mondal, Sayantan Pyne
Defender: Shouvik Ghosh, Prosenjit Paul, Ainish Jamadar, Tanmoy Ghosh, Pradip Patra, Suvam Singh, Kartick Das, Karan Thapa, Amod Mahato, Toton Das
Midfielder: Goutam Khujur, Tirthankar Sarkar, Dipendu Dowary, Argha Chakraborty, Anirban Das, Dipak Kumar Rajak, Samar Kumir, Pritam Roy, Sunil Karmakar, Soumitra Dey, Kunal Ghosh, Sajal Bag, Sourav Roy
Striker: Rajen Burman, Rahul Kumar Paswan, Asit Hembram
Coach: Goutam Ghosh
Assistant Coach: Samar Deb
Goalkeeper Coach: Jagadish Ghosh
Physio: Kunal Ghosh
Physical Trainer: Chiranjit Malakar
SOUTHERN SAMITY ANNOUNCED 3 MORE SIGNINGS
24.7.21: Southern Samity made 3 more signings announcement -25 year old midfielder Laltu Hembram, 27 year old forward Basanta Singh and 27 year old right back Abhishek Das.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Arnab Das Sharma, Praveen Patel
Defender: Abhishek Das, Sanathoi Singh, Sk. Moghlesur Rahaman, Sonam Zangpo Bhutia, Kunal Tamang, Pranit Lama
Midfielder: Laltu Hembram, Subhankar Dey, Gunajit Singh, Imran Khan, Sayan Dutta, Waseem Rahaman, Sheen Stevensen Shokhtung, Lalawmpuia Hnamte
Striker: Ashim Biswas, Princewill Emeka, Basanta Singh, Peter Seiminthang Haokip, Amarendu Chakraborty, Elminho Kilong
Coach: Biswajit Bhattacharyya
TRAU FC CONFIRMED TWO SIGNINGS
23.7.21: TRAU FC confirmed the signing of defender Chingakham Roshan Singh for the upcoming season. TRAU FC's own product Bishorjit Sapam extends his stay with two more years until 2023.
26 year old center back Roshan Singh played for Gokulam Kerala FC in last season. Before that he played for Neroca FC. He made 10 appearances in I-League so far.
Gokulam Kerala FC have signed Akbar Khan from Neroca FC for the upcoming I-League season.
23.7.21: The 22-year-old midfielder from Manipur had an impressive I-League debut season last year, playing 11 matches and with a pass completion rate of 82 Percent.
Akbar started his career at an early age and came to notice when he was selected as the best youth player in the Manipur state league. Football runs in veins also as he is the brother of former Gokulam Kerala FC winger Imran Khan, who is now playing for North East FC united.
He later went on to play for Sagolband FC and then to NEROCA. In ILeague, Akbar played as a defensive midfielder. The player is known for his all-around skills in the midfield.
“Joining Gokulam Kerala FC would be a huge step in my career. I will do my best at the club. I am waiting to join my teammates at the preseason camp in Kozhikode,” said Akbar Khan.
ISL SIDE BENGALURU FC sign midfielder Jayesh Rane on three-year deal
22.7.21: Bengaluru FC, on Thursday, announced the signing of versatile Indian midfielder Jayesh Rane on a three-year deal that runs through till the end of the 2023-24 season. The 28-year-old is the club’s sixth signing of the summer, and joins the side ahead of their AFC Cup Playoff Clash against Eagles FC.
Rane, a product of the Mumbai FC academy, has 85 caps in the Indian Super League and will strengthen the Blues’ options in attack. He joins following a four-season stint with ATK and ATK Mohun Bagan, and has previously been a part of the Chennaiyin FC side that clinched the 2017-18 Indian Super League title.
“I'm really happy to join Bengaluru FC, a club that has known success for several years and one that represents a high level of professionalism on and off the pitch.
Rane, a midfielder who can also operate down the flanks, won the Indian Super League a second time with ATK, and was also part of the Aizawl FC squad that clinched the I-League trophy in 2017. He has also represented India at the U23 level, playing in the AFC U23 Championship qualifiers.
The Blues are set to face Club Eagles FC in their AFC Cup Playoff Clash, in Maldives, on August 15th.
ARYAN CLUB ANNOUNCED 2 MORE SIGNINGS
21.7.21: Aryan Club announced 4 more signings ahead of the upcoming CFL Premier A season. They are - 25 year old defender Shanid Valan, young forward Luntinmang Haokip, 22 year old, former Delhi Dynamos Reserves, Chennaiyin FC Reserves and Indian Arrows midfielder Surya Tirkey and 24 year old midfielder Robinson Singh who played for top clubs like Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan and TRAU FC.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Laltu Mondal, Subrata Santra
Defender: Kareem Omoloja, Snehasish Dutta, Prabhakar Naskar, Shanid Valan, Shavavas P, Faruk Hussian
Midfielder: Alfred Jaryan, Prosenjit Chakraborty, Shamshad Ali, Rakesh Karmakar, Sandip Oraon, Akash Dave, Surya Tirkey, Robinson Singh
Striker: Luntinmang Haokip, Sudheesh A Kuttan
Coach: Suman Ghosal
Physio: Kuntal Chakraborty
SOUTHERN SAMITY ANNOUNCED 2 MORE SIGNINGS
21.7.21: Southern Samity made 2 more signings announcement today - experienced winger Imran Khan and midfielder Sayan Dutta.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Arnab Das Sharma, Praveen Patel
Defender: Sanathoi Singh, Sk. Moghlesur Rahaman, Sonam Zangpo Bhutia, Kunal Tamang, Pranit Lama
Midfielder: Subhankar Dey, Gunajit Singh, Imran Khan, Sayan Dutta, Waseem Rahaman, Sheen Stevensen Shokhtung, Lalawmpuia Hnamte
Striker: Ashim Biswas, Princewill Emeka, Peter Seiminthang Haokip, Amarendu Chakraborty, Elminho Kilong
Coach: Biswajit Bhattacharyya
BSS SC ANNOUNCED 5 MORE SIGNINGS
21.7.21: CFL Premier A side BSS SC announced 5 more signings - defender Pradip Patra, striker Rajen Burman, striker Rahul Kumar Paswan, goalkeeper Sourav Chakraborty, winger Dipak Kumar Rajak, midfielder Samar Kumir for the upcoming season.
As per their signing announcement teams are-
Goalkeeper: Priyant Singh, Sourav Chakraborty
Defender: Shouvik Ghosh, Prosenjit Paul, Ainish Jamadar, Tanmoy Ghosh, Pradip Patra
Midfielder: Tirthankar Sarkar, Dipendu Dowary, Argha Chakraborty, Anirban Das, Dipak Kumar Rajak, Samar Kumir
Striker: Rajen Burman, Rahul Kumar Paswan
Coach: Goutam Ghosh
ROUNDGLASS PUNJAB FC ANNOUNCED THEIR NEW HEAD COACH TODAY
21.7.21: Roundglass Punjab FC today announced their head coach, Ashley Westwood. Former Bengaluru FC and ATK coach Ashley will join I-League side by replacing Irish Manager Curtis Fleming.
44 year old English Manager Westwood spend 3 years in Bengaluru FC where he won I-League for 2 times, 2013-14 and 2015-16 season and he also won Federation Cup in 2014-15 season.Later he joined ATK in 2018 as an interim head coach replacing Teddy Sheringham .
ODISHA FC ANNOUNCED THEIR NEW HEAD COACH & ASSISTANT COACH TODAY
20.7.21: Odisha FC announced the signing of their new Head Coach Francisco "Kiko" Ramírez González ahead of the upcoming season. The 51-year-old Spaniard has signed for a year contract with an option to extend after the season.
UEFA Pro License holder Ramírez started his coaching career with Spanish side Gimnastic as its Assistant Coach first in 2002 and later as its Youth Coach. In 2010, he joined Pobla Mafumet and returned to Gimnastic again in 2012. He has also coached other Spanish clubs like CE L'Hospitalet, CD Castellon and CE Sabadell. He was the Second Coach at Nastic de Tarragona in the first division in Spain as well. His first foreign assignment was with Polish football club Wisla Krakow in 2017 and before coming to India. He was the Manager of Greek professional side AO Xanthi FC in 2019.
Coach Ramírez mentioned in club media, "I am very excited to arrive in India and start working on this amazing project with Odisha FC to make our fans feel proud of the team. We are going to work hard to build a strong team with good players that represent our fan base."
Club President Mr. Raj Athwal expressed, "We are delighted to welcome Coach Ramirez to the Odisha family. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the club and has an impressive record with the clubs he has managed in Europe. Throughout the process, he impressed with his vision and ambition and demonstrated a desire to create a winning mentality at Odisha Football Club. I am sure our supporters and everyone in Odisha will welcome Coach Ramirez with open arms. We wish him well in achieving success for our football club."
Odisha FC has also signed Joaquín García Sánchez as assistant coach and Head of Football Development ahead of the 2021-22 Hero ISL season.
Joaquín, who has a UEFA Pro License, has a lot of experience in developing players and is a former coach at Valencia CF's youth teams. He has coached many important players who are currently playing in the first division in Spain and also directed the Valencia CF academy in Seoul. He also coached Levante UD in the first division of women's football in Spain for several seasons. He was also the Director of Coaches in the Valencia area, working for the Spanish Federation.
SOUTHERN SAMITY ANNOUNCED 3 SIGNINGS TODAY
19.7.21: Southern Samity today announced three more signings - striker Ashim Biswas, 20 year old midfielder Waseem Rahaman and Nigerian striker Princewill Emeka.
Ashim Biswas played for several top clubs including three Kolkata giants, Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Mohammedan SC. He also played Indian Super League with Jamhedpur FC. He also played clubs like Viva Kerala, Salgaocar, Tollygunge Agragami and also previously played for Southern Samity.
Princewill Emeka played for Aizawl FC in last I-League. Before that he played for TRAU FC, Mohammedan SC, Neroca FC.
ARYAN CLUB ANNOUNCED 3 SIGNINGS TODAY
19.7.21: Aryan Club signed 2 players from Kerala, striker Sudheesh A Kuttan and defender Shanavas P. They also signed experienced winger Shamsad Ali.
BSS SC ANNOUNCED 4 SIGNINGS TODAY
19.7.21: BSS SC announced three signings today, 30 year old experienced keeper Priyant Singh, 28 year old winger Tirthankar Sarkar, defender Ainish Jamadar and another young winger Anirban Das for the upcoming season.
Goalkeeper Priyant played several top clubs including East Bengal, Mohammedan SC, Gokulam Kerala FC, Churchill Brothers, Calcutta Customs. He made 14 appearances in I-League and 3 appearances in AFC Cup, 14 appearances in 2nd Division League and 10 appearances in 2nd division league play off.
Tirthankar Sarkar played also several top clubs including Mohun Bagan, Churchill Brothers, Salgaocar, Pailan Arrows, Mohammedan SC, Southern Samity, Bhowanipore SC. He made 33 appearances in I-League and 1 appearance in AFC Cup, 21 appearances in 2nd Division League and 4 appearances in 2nd division league play off.
Both Tirthankar and Priyant played for Mohammedan SC in last two seasons.
ARYAN CLUB ANNOUNCED 3 SIGNINGS TODAY
18.7.21: CFL Premier A side Aryan Club announced three signings today. Bengal Santosh Trophy player and former midfielder of Mohammedan SC, Rakesh Karmakar, winger Sandip Oraon and side back Faruk Hussian.
Aryan Club earlier announced eight signings - midfielder Akash Dave, winger Prosenjit Chakraborty, left back Prabhakar Naskar, goalkeeper Subrata Santra, defender Kareem Omolaja, midfielder Alfred Jaryan, defender Snehasish Dutta and goalkeeper Laltu Mondal.
BSS SC ANNOUNCED 3 SIGNINGS TODAY
18.7.21: BSS SC today confirmed three more signings ahead of the upcoming CFL Premier A. They are former winger of Mohun Bagan Argha Chakraborty, right back Tanmoy Ghosh and former Mohammedan SC winger Dipendu Dowary.
Earlier they have announced the signings of former defender of Mohun Bagan Shouvik Ghosh and former defender of Mohammedan SC Prosenjit Paul.
SOUTHERN SAMITY ANNOUNCED 5 SIGNINGS TODAY
18.7.21: CFL Premier A side Southern Samity announced 5 signings today. They are - 27 year old former Jamshedpur FC goalkeeper Praaveen Patel, 24 year old winger Sheen Stevensen Shokhtung, 21 year old midfielder Lalawmpuia Hnamte, 24 year striker Peter Seiminthang Haokip and 24 year old striker Amarendu Chakraborty.
Earlier they announced 9 signings - 22 year old left back Sanathoi Singh, 24 year old midfielder Subhankar Dey, 21 year old midfielder Gunajit Singh, 26 year old striker Elminho Kilong, 28 year old defender Sk. Moghlesur Rahaman, 27 year old former Mohun Bagan defender Sonam Zangpo Bhutia, 25 year old right back Kunal Tamang, defender Pranit Lama and goalkeeper Arnab Das Sharma.
HARMANPREET SINGH JOINS BENGALURU FC
18.7.21: Bengaluru FC confirms the signing of young talented striker Harmanpreet Singh from SC East Bengal. a product of United Punjab FC, moves on a free transfer and joins the Blues ahead of their upcoming AFC Cup playoff stage clash against Eagles FC.
Harmanpreet joined Indian Arrows in 2018 and made 14 appearances in the I-League before moving to SC East Bengal ahead of their debut season in the Indian Super League. Having represented the Red and Gold Brigade seven times last season, the Punjab native said he was relishing a new challenge with the Blues.
A versatile, hard-working attacker who is capable of playing in various positions in the final third, Harmanpreet hails from a family of footballers. His father Satnam Singh played for Punjab Police while his uncle turned out for JCT Phagwara, winning the prestigious Durand Cup with them.
Garhwal Heroes sign former East Bengal, Mohun Bagan Striker Kromah
17.7.21: Former East Bengal, Mohun Bagan star Ansumana Kromah has penned a deal to join Garhwal Heroes FC for the upcoming 2nd Division Qualifiers Round in Delhi.
Kromah comes with an experience of five years in Indian football, where he plied his trade for major outfits like Churchill Brothers SC, Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Aizawl FC. His recent stint was with Peerless SC in the Calcutta Football League 2019-20 season, where he captained the side and played a pivotal role in winning the trophy against the likes of giants Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.
The 27-year-old Liberian striker is known as a 'Fox-in-the-Box', having proven his mettle as a lethal poacher of the game. Kromah arrived in Delhi this morning and stated his vision with the club, "I'm delighted to join Garhwal FC to play the 2nd Division Qualifiers in Delhi. I believe this is the start of a new relationship that can bear fruits in the future. I'm very determined to give results. I extend my gratitude to the coaches and management for putting their trust in me. Together, we must achieve greater heights."
Talking about the fans, Kromah says, "I can't wait to meet the fans. I'm looking forward to a new experience, and I am very excited. We will win the Delhi League for you guys."
Commenting on the new signing, Head Coach Vivek Rawat said, “We’re very happy to welcome Kromah. He is going to be a very valuable addition to the team and we look forward to winning the Qualifiers with him”
BSS SC ANNOUNCED TWO SIGNINGS TODAY
17.7.21: BSS SC announced the signing of former defender of Mohun Bagan Shouvik Ghosh and former defender of Mohammedan SC Prosenjit Paul for the upcoming CFL Premier A season.
Earlier they announced their head coach, Goutam Ghosh for this season.
SOUTHERN SAMITY ANNOUNCED NINE SIGNINGS SO FAR
17.7.21: Southern Samity announced nine signings so far. They are - 22 year old left back Sanathoi Singh, 24 year old midfielder Subhankar Dey, 21 year old midfielder Gunajit Singh, 26 year old striker Elminho Kilong, 28 year old defender Sk. Moghlesur Rahaman, 27 year old former Mohun Bagan defender Sonam Zangpo Bhutia and 25 year old right back Kunal Tamang. Earlier they announced the signings of defender Pranit Lama and goalkeeper Arnab Das Sharma.
ARYAN CLUB ANNOUNCED EIGHT SIGNINGS SO FAR
17.7.21: Aryan Club announced the signings of midfielder Akash Dave, winger Prosenjit Chakraborty, left back Prabhakar Naskar, goalkeeper Subrata Santra, defender Kareem Omolaja, midfielder Alfred Jaryan, Snehasish Dutta and goalkeeper Laltu Mondal so far.
Among two foreigners, Kareem played for top sides like Minerva Punjab FC, Aizawl FC, Mohammedan SC. I-League winner Alfred played a long spell with Aizawl FC.
Aryan club also announced AFC A licence holder, Suman Ghosal as their head coach for the upcoming season. Aryan club also announced Kuntal Chakraborty as their physio for this season.
SOUTHERN SAMITY ANNOUNCED THREE SIGNINGS TODAY
16.7.21: CFL Premier A division side Southern Samity confirmed the signing of 28 year old defender Sk. Moghlesur Rahaman, 27 year old former Mohun Bagan defender Sonam Zangpo Bhutia and 25 year old right back Kunal Tamang ahead of the upcoming season.
They have already announced few more signings before - defender Pranit Lama and goalkeeper Arnab Das Sharma under their head coach Biswajit Bhattacharya.
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNED SHOIB AKHTAR
16.7.21: Gokulam Kerala FC have signed left back Shoib Akhtar for the upcoming season. He played for Neroca FC in the last season.
The 21-year-old started his football career with the Goan club SESA Football Academy and has represented the club in Goa Professional League, and Hero Elite League 2018-19. He was roped into the I-League side Neroca FC and started 10 matches for the Manipur club last season.
“Gokulam Kerala FC have always supported young players and I see joining the club as a major step in my football career. There are several players from Manipur in the team and I believe I would be able to make a mark in the team,” said Shoib Akhtar.
“He is a good player and will be an asset to our club in the future. We need to increase our squad depth and prepare well for the I-League and AFC Cup. We wish Shoib all success at the club,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
MOHAMMEDAN SC'S HEAD COACH ARRIVED AT KOLKATA, CLUB ANNOUNCED TWO MORE SIGNINGS TODAY
16.7.21: Mohammedan Sporting Club’s New Head Coach Andrey Alekseyevich Chernyshov has arrived in Kolkata this evening. He was welcomed by General Secretary Danish Iqbal and Athletics Secretary Hasnain Ahmed at Dum Dum Airport.
Defender Arijeet Singh has extended his stay with the club for the upcoming season. Mohammedan Sporting also signed former TRAU FC and Odisha FC forward Seiminmang Manchong.
21 year old forward Seiminmang Manchong played for TRAU FC last season. Before that he played for Odisha FC, Delhi Dynamos reserve team, Royal Wahingdoh. He made 6 appearances in Indian Super League, 4 appearances in I-League and 9 appearances in 2nd Division League so far and scored 4 goals.
RAFAEL CRIVELLARO EXTENDS HIS STAY WITH CHENNAIYIN FC
16.7.21: Brazilian attacking midfielder Rafael Crivellaro has extended his stay at Chennaiyin FC on a multi-year contract.
Crivellaro made 27 Indian Super league appearances so far, scored seven goals and eight assists in the 2019-20 season. Apart from having played in one of the world’s most prestigious club competitions, the Europa League, in Vitória Guimarães SC, he won Taca de Portugal (Portuguese Cup) in 2012-13.
“I’m very happy to continue with Chennaiyin FC. Ever since I joined the club, I’ve had a special bond with the fans, the city and the staff. I love Chennai. For me, it is always felt like home. Last season, injury kept me away, and now I can’t wait to get back with the team and give it everything on the field,” the Brazilian said on his return to the club for a third straight season.
“Rafa has been a key player for us ever since he joined, and the statistics will tell you that. We missed him last season due to injury. We are overjoyed to be able to continue with the best player in the Hero ISL within our set-up,” the club’s co-owner Vita Dani said.
“Rafael Crivellaro is a very good player. He has shown his quality with his performances for the team in the past. We have extended his contract as we believe he will do the same this year as well. I’m sure he’ll work hard to make a comeback after his injury. I hope he will come back stronger and better and help the team as he did before,” CFC’s newly-appointed coach Bozidar Bandovic said.
CARL MCHUGH EXTEND CONTRACT WITH ATK MOHUN BAGAN
16.7.21: ATK Mohun Bagan extend the contract of Carl McHugh, the Irish midfeilder for yet another year. This will be his third successive year for ATK Mohun Bagan.
Carl McHugh proved himself as an utility footballer as he is efficient as central defender, defensive medio and as left-back.
After signing the new agreement with ATK Mohun Bagan the experienced Irish midfeilder said, "I am happy that the club management has asked me to sign a new contract. A long season is ahead. I am preparing to give my best. Like other footballers, I am also hungry to win the trophy. Last time I couldn't, this time I want to win all the tournaments. Since coming to Kolkata, my performance has improved a lot, especially because of the coach, Antonio Habas. He has built me tactically. It feels good to be able to take coaching from him again.
JOAO VICTOR EXTEND HIS STAY IN HYDERABAD FC
16.7.21: Hyderabad FC have retained 32 years old Brazilian midfielder Joao Victor on a two-year extension, till the end of the 2022-23 campaign, This was officially announced by Hyderabad FC on Friday.
Joao Victor is capable of playing in midfield and defence, was an integral part of the Hyderabad FC squad that finished just outside the top-4 in the 2019-20 season of the ISL. After signing the new agreement the Brazalian said, "I am really happy to extend my stay with the club and continue being a part of this amazing family,"
The former La Liga midfielder made 17 starts under Manolo Marquez last season, registering three goals and two assists. Joao was also the captain of the side on a couple of occasions through the course of the campaign.
CONGOLESE STRIKER JOINS BENGALURU FC
16.7.21: Bengaluru FC announced the signing of Congolese striker Prince Vinny Ibara Doniama on a two years deal. Prince Ibara joins Bengaluru FC on a two-year deal with an optional one year extension.
Ibara, a resident of Brazzaville, has represented the Congo National team on 13 occasions, making his debut in a friendly against Morocco in 2016. He has scored four times for his country, the first of which came in African Cup of Nations qualifiers against Liberia in 2018.
Ibara, who began his career at ACNFF in Congo, had stints with clubs in Gabon and Tunisia before joining Qatar Stars League side Al-Wakrah in 2017. The following season, Ibara moved to Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1 side USM Alger, where he scored nine League goals helping Alger to the Championnat National 1 title.
SOUTHERN SAMITY SIGNS PRANIT LAMA TAMANG
15.7.21: Southern Samity today announced the signing of defender Pranit Lama ahead of the upcoming Calcutta Football League Premier Division A.
Pranit played for Bhowanipur SC in last year I-League qualifier. Before that he played for Mohammedan SC Guwahati FC.
SREENIDI SIGNS SAMAD ALI MALLICK, NEROCA FC EXTENDS ROMTAN'S CONTRACT
15.7.21: Sreenidi Deccan FC signs 26 year old right back Samad Ali Mallick for the upcoming season. Ongnam Romtan Singh extends his stay with Neroca FC for one more year.
Samad played for Roundglass Punjab FC last season after a long spell with East Bengal club. Experienced played Samad played 43 matches in I-League and also played Super Cup, Durand Cup, Federation Cup.
24 year old left back Romtan Singh joined Neroca FC in 2019. Before that he played clubs like Delhi United FC, Kerala Blasters Reserves, Peerless SC. He played I-League with Neroca FC where he made 7 appearances. He also made 9 appearances in 2nd Division League.
HARMONJOT KHABRA JOINS KERALA BLASTERS FC
15.7.21: Indian Super League team Kerala Blasters FC today announces the signing of experienced defender Harmonjot Singh Khabra on a two years deal from Bengaluru FC.
A product of Tata Football Academy Khabra played for Sporting Club of Goa in the year 2006. Khabra had a long and successful tenure of seven years with East Bengal. After 7 successful years with East Bengal, he joined Chennaiyin FC in 2014 and went on to play an integral role in the side that made the semifinals in 2014 and won the championship in 2015. After three seasons at Chennaiyin FC, he moved to Bengaluru FC, and played a key role in their 2018-19 Hero ISL triumph.
Khabra becomes the fourth new signing this season at Kerala Blasters FC, after Sanjeev Stalin, Hormipam Ruivah and Vincy Barretto.
GLAN MARTINS SIGNS A LONG TERM DEAL WITH FC GOA
15.7.21: Glan Martins has signed a new three-year contract at FC Goa following his impressive debut season in the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) last time around. The new deal will see the Indian international wear his beloved orange till the summer of 2024.
The central midfielder became a vital cog in Juan Ferrando’s side in the second half of the season following a deadline day switch from ATK Mohun Bagan in January. The man from Velsao has looked completely at home ever since donning the FC Goa jersey for the first time in February in a game against NorthEast United FC.
Martins has impressed mightily in midfield with his tenacious and energetic displays and helped the Gaurs qualify for the semi-finals. His displays at the centre of the park didn’t go unnoticed as he saw himself being awarded his first national cap in June – starting all three games in India’s World Cup qualifiers.
SOUTHERN SAMITY RESIGNS EXPERIENCED GOALKEEPER ARNAB DAS SHARMA
14.7.21: Calcutta Football League Premier A division side Southern Samity today announced the signing of goalkeeper Arnab Das Sharma.
33 year old Arnab played for several top clubs of I-League and ISL like Delhi Dynamos, Mumbai City FC, East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, Mohammedan SC, Gokulam Kerala FC, Salgaocar FC, Minerva Punjab FC, Mumbai Tigers, United Sikkim FC. He also played several CFL Premier clubs like Bhowanipur SC, George Telegraph.
He made 22 appearances in I-League and 9 appearances in Indian Super League.
FAISAL ALI EXTENDS HIS STAY WITH MOHAMMEDAN SC
13.7.21: 21 year old attacking midfielder Faisal Ali extends his stay with Mohammedan SC for one more year until 2022.
Faisal played for Mohammedan SC in last I-League before playing for Bhowanipore SC in I-League qualifier. Before that he played for Southern Samity.
He made 12 appearances in I-League last year where he scored 2 goals and made 2 assists.
ATK MOHUN BAGAN SIGNS BIDHYANANDA SINGH
12.7.21: ATK Mohun Bagan have announced the signing of 23 year old midfielder Bidyananda Singh on a one year deal until 2022.
He was also part of the ATK FC team that won the Indian Super League title in 2016 under Spaniard Jose Francisco Molina. He played 6 matches in that campaign before moving to Bengaluru FC. He featured in 10 games for Mumbai City FC in the 2019-20 season and scored a goal as well as provided an assist but did not played any match in last season.
“We are delighted to announce that Bidyananda Singh is back in the City of Joy as he signs a one-year deal with the Green & Maroon,” the club announced on Twitter on Monday.
Bidhyananda is the seventh signing for the Mariners after Liston Colaco, Amrinder Singh, Joni Kauko, Deepak Tangri, Ashutosh Mehta and Hugo Boumous.
SPANISH MIDFEILDER EDU GRACIA JOINS HYDERABAD FC
12.7.21: The Spanish midfeilder Eduardo Gracia signs a deal with Indian Super League team Hyderabad FC in a one year deal. The experienced offensive midfielder, who can operate in multiple roles, joins Manolo Marquez’s side from last-season’s runners-up ATK Mohun Bagan.
In the Indian Super League, Edu Garcia has made a total of 47 appearances scored 10 goals while providing 12 assists.
Edu Gracia is an experienced footballer in India as well as in Indian Super League. After joining at Hyderabad FC, the Spanish midfeilder told the club media, “I am very excited to start my journey with Hyderabad FC. I promise to give my best and help the club grow with my experience and my work. I want HFC to finish as high as possible on the table, and will work hard for that. I will also always try to help the team by giving what the coach wants from me.”
Edu Garcia becomes the second new overseas player this season at Hyderabad FC, and the fourth new arrival after Aaren D’Silva, Abdul Rabeeh and Nigerian striker Bartholomew Ogbeche.
SARTHAK JOINS BENGALURU FC IN A TWO YEARS DEAL
12.7.21: Bengaluru FC today announced the signing Indian defender Sarthak Golui on a two-year deal . The 23-year-old becomes the Blues’ fourth signing of the summer, after Yrondu Musavu-King, Alan Costa and Rohit Kumar, and will join the squad ahead of the upcoming AFC Cup playoff stage clash against Eagles FC.
Kolkata born Sarthak Golui rose through the ranks with the AIFF Elite Academy, and has represented clubs in the I-League and the Indian Super League. Across stints at FC Pune City, Mumbai City FC and SC East Bengal, Golui has amassed 49 caps in the Indian Super League prior to his move to Bengaluru.
Sarthak Golui, who has represented India at the U16 and U19 levels, made his senior national team debut against Sri Lanka at the 2018 SAFF Championship in Bangladesh. With bags of pace and the ability to carry the ball forward into attack, Blues’ Head Coach Marco Pezzaiuoli said Golui would be a valuable addition to his squad.
Edu Garcia becomes the second new overseas player this season at Hyderabad FC, and the fourth new arrival after Aaren D’Silva, Abdul Rabeeh and Nigerian striker Bartholomew Ogbeche.
MOHAMMEDAN SC SIGNS GOALKEEPER MITHUN SAMANTA AND GOALKEEPER COACH MIHIR SAWANT
11.7.21: Mohammedan SC signs former Real Kashmir FC & TRAU FC goalkeeper Mithun Samanta for 2 seasons until 2023. Mohammedan SC signs former Gokulam Kerala FC I-League winning Goalkeeping Coach, Mihir Sawant.
29 year old goalkeeper Mithun played for some top clubs like SC East Bengal, TRAU FC, Peerless, Hindustan SC. So far he made 23 appearances in I-League, 24 appearances in 2nd Division League and 9 appearances in I-League qualifier.
35 year old, Mihir is an AFC Level-3 licence holder and was a former I-League goalkeeper. As a goalkeeper, he has played for Dempo SC, Vasco and Mohemmadans SC. He has coached Jamshedpur FC (reserve team), Churchill Brothers, Fateh Hyderabad FC and Gokulam Kerala FC.
NEROCA FC RETAINS KHAIMINTHANG & JITESHWOR
11.7.21: Neroca FC extends the contract of winger Khaiminthang Lhungdim and midfielder Yumkhaibam Jiteshwor Singh.
21 year old winger Khaiminthang Lhungdim, promoted to the senior team and made 19 appearances and scored 3 goals and have 1 assists. Jiteshwor Singh joined Neroca FC last season from Bhowanipore SC of CFL Premier A side of Kolkata. He also played for Neroca FC 2019-20 season. So far he made 20 appearances in I-League.
CHENNAIYIN FC ANNOUNCED THEIR NEW HEAD COACH
10.7.21: Chennaiyin FC roped in Bozidar Bandovic as head coach ahead of the 2021-22 Indian Super League season. 51 year old Montenegrin football manager Bozidar signs for one year contract.
Former coach of Greek giant Olympiacos FC, Bozidar also worked as head of analysis for former Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde and as assistant coach the season after. Bandovic’s most recent stint, at Buriram United which ended with 86 wins, 22 draws and 23 losses in the 131 matches in charge.
During his time at Buriram United, he won successive Thai League titles (2016-17 & 2017-18) and a Thai League Manager of the Year award in 2017-18. He also help to promote the team to round-of-16 of the AFC Champions League. His playing career in the top-flight includes stints at Red Star Belgrade, Olympiacos and POAK.
“I am delighted to join the Chennaiyin family. I am ready and I cannot wait to start! After our conversations, I realized that this club is very special. I was very impressed. At Chennaiyin, I want us to be a team that knows what to do in different tactical situations while attacking, defending, and transitioning. My target is to improve the team and the players tactically, and individually. I did watch many games from last year and we will first evaluate and complete the team. Of course, I need more time to train the players to know them better,” said the former Yugoslavian national team youth player.
“We are absolutely delighted to have someone like Bozidar Bandovic take up the mantle of head coach. What he has achieved in Thailand is a testament to his capabilities and we expect him to show similar efficiency in India,” Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said.
SREENIDI DECCAN FOOTBALL CLUB SIGNS LALROMAWIA
10.7.21: Sreenidi Deccan Football Club signs midfielder Lalromawia for the upcoming season.
23 year old midfielder Lalromawia played for I-League champion Gokulam Kerala FC in last two seasons. Before that he played for Mizoram Premier League side Chhinga Veng FC.
He made 20 appearances in I-League so far where he scored 1 goal and made 1 assist. During his time in Gokulam Kerala FC, he also played Durand Cup. In Chhinga Veng FC, he played 2nd Division League where he made 9 appearances and scored 3 goals.
TRAU FC SIGNED TWO PLAYERS FROM ATK MOHUN BAGAN RESERVES
10.7.21: TRAU FC confirmed signing of two local player Timothy Haokip and Buanthanglun Samte.
20 year old midfielder Timothy played for ATK Mohun Bagan reserves side. Birchandra Academy product left wing back Samte played for ATK Mohun Bagan reserve side.
GOKULAM KERALA FC SIGNS RAKSHIT DAGAR
8.7.21: Gokulam Kerala FC have roped in 27 year old goalkeeper Rakshit Dagar for the upcoming season.
Starting his I-League debut with United Sikkim FC, he played for DSK Shivajians. In DSK he played Durand Cup and Federation Cup also. Later he joined Minerva Punjab FC where he won I-League. Later he joined East Bengal club.
In last season he played for new I-League side Sudeva FC of his hometown Delhi and played 10 matches in I-League. Altogether he has played 37 matches in the I-League with 15 clean sheets.
“I believe I can add more quality to Gokulam Kerala FC. I look forward to playing in Asia. My other target will be to win the league for a second time. Though I will miss playing at the historic EMS Corporation Stadium due to the pandemic, we will try our best to defend the title,” said Rakshit Dagar.
“Rakshit is one of the best goalkeepers in the league. He has already won the ILeague trophy a few years ago. He had impressive statistics last season and we believe he could make the most of it during his tenure at Gokulam Kerala FC,” said VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC.
KERALA BLASTERS SIGNED VINCY BARRETO
8.7.21: ISL side Kerala Blasters signed 21 years old striker Vincy Barretto from Gokulam Kerala. Bareto started with U18 Dempo SC team, then he joined FC GOA Reserve Team and played Goa Professional League and Second Division League. Last year he played for the I-League champion team Gokulam Kerala FC.
HYDERABAD FC SIGNS BARTHOLOMEW OGBECHE
8.7.21: Hyderabad FC signed Nigeria born French striker Bartholomew Ogbeche ahead of the upcoming season. This is his 4th Indian Super League side in 4 consecutive season after coming to India in 2018-19 season.
Paris Saint-Germain youth product, Bartholomew Ogbeche started his Indian Super League journey with NorthEast United. In his debut season he scored 12 goals. In next season he played for Kerala Blasters FC where he scored 15 goals. In last season he played with Indian Super League champion Mumbai City FC where he scored 8 goals.
Bartholomew Ogbeche so far played 57 matches so far in Indian Super League where he scored 35 goals and made 6 assists so far.
ATK MOHUN BAGAN SIGNS HUGO BOUMOUS ON A 5 YEARS DEAL
8.7.21: ATK Mohun Bagan today announced the signing of French attacking medio Hugo Boumous for the upcoming season from Mumbai City FC on a 5 years deal until 2026.
Stade Lavallois Youth Academy in France product Hugo joined Indian Super League through FC Goa in during the 2017-18 season’s January transfer window. During this season he made a instant impact by scoring two goals and providing two assists in just eight matches. He joined Mumbai City FC last season.
Golden Ball winner in 2020, Hugo played 58 matches so far in Indian Super League, where he scored 19 goals and made 24 assists. Boumous had his best Hero ISL season in the 2019-20 edition, scoring 11 goals and assisting 10 others in their run to the Inaugural League Shield.
Hugo Boumous said to club media after signing - "I know Kolkata as the Mecca of Indian football. I am happy to sign with the city's traditional and successful club, ATK Mohun Bagan. I have heard that the joy of playing in front of millions of supporters of the Green-Maroon team in Yuba Bharati is different and I shall play this time to win them.”
"I am always hungry to win the trophy. I have brought success to the clubs that I have played in. And I shall keep this in mind as I play again. I will do my best to win. I am looking forward to seeing the passion and excitement of the Green Maroon supporters after winning the match. Sanjiv Goenka, the principal owner of the team, inspired me to come to Kolkata. I am grateful to him. My goal is to win the AFC Cup and the Indian Super League. "
“Both scoring goals and helping to score goals are equally rewarding. I get pleasure from both. Team’s victory is the main purpose. That is not possible without goals. ”
Antonio Habas says is club media -"Hugo is a very fast and technically successful footballer. His personal skills are also very good. Hugo can create attacks as well as counterattacks. That is why he is so successful. With the arrival of Hugo, the strength of the team increased a lot. "
MARCUS JOSEPH JOINED MD SPORTING
7.7.21: The ace striker of Trinidad and Tobago Marcus Joseph joined Mohammedan Sporting. Joseph is a successful striker in Indian football circuit scored goals in important matches for Gokulam Kerala FC.
The 30 years old Marcus Joseph started his career with United Petronin FC and moved to Joe Public FC in 2010. After spending two seasons there, he joined T and TEC Sports Club in 2012. He played at Point Fortin and Central FC before joining W Connection on 2017. Marcus joined Gokulam Kerala in January 2019 and scored 25 goals in 30 matches. 11 of those came in the 2019 Durand Cup, where he single handedly led the Malabarians to the title.
Joseph made his debut for his country on March 3, 2013 and has so far played 21 matches, scoring 7 goals. He recently represented Trinidad and Tobago in the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup Qualifiers where he also found the net against Montserrat.
NEROCA FC SIGNED PUKHRAMBAM MANISANA SINGH
7.7.21: Neroca FC signed 20 year old midfielder Pukhrambam Manisana Singh from Jamshedpur FC ahead of the upcoming season.
Tata Football Academy product Manisana Singh promoted to the senior ahead of the Hero ISL 2020-21 season but did not played any match. He played for Jamshedpur FC youth team and TFA youth team. During his youth career he played I-League 2nd Division with Jamshedpur FC Reserves and Durand Cup where he made total 9 appearances.
ODISHA FC SIGNED ISAAC VANMALSAWMA
7.7.21: Odisha FC has reached an agreement with 24-year-old Isaac Vanmalsawma ahead of the eighth season with a two-year deal until 2023.
Club President Mr Raj Athwal commented: "We are delighted to welcome Isaac to the Odisha family. Another quality addition to the squad and a highly respected player who I am sure will make a huge impact next season."
Isaac expressed: "I am delighted to join this young and exciting team. We will play vibrant and entertaining football, delighting our loyal fans who have been with us every step of the way. I want to assure them that, neither I nor the team will ever give up and will keep fighting till the final whistle. I would like to thank the Odisha FC management for this opportunity, and I shall work hard to repay the faith that they have shown in me."
After representing India Under-19 in 2013 and AIFF Elite Academy product, started his professional career with I-League side Shillong Lajong FC. He then started his ISL journey with FC Pune City in 2017 and went on to play for Chennaiyin FC and Jamshedpur FC as well. He made his senior India debut against Bhutan under Coach Stephen Constantine.
SAFIUL RAHMAN EXTENDS HIS STAY WITH MOHAMMEDAN SC
7.7.21: 28 year old right back Safiul Rahman extends his stay with Mohammedan SC for one more season.
Safiul Rahman joined Mohammedan SC in 2018. He is part of the I-League qualifier and I-League squad of Mohammedan SC in last season. During his time in Mohammedan SC he made 50 appearances for the club. Before that he played for Peerless SC in CFL Premier A.
CHENNAIYIN FC SIGNED DEBJIT MAJUMDAR
7.7.21: Two-times champions Chennaiyin FC (CFC) have signed 33-year-old SC East Bengal (last edition of the ISL) goalkeeper Debjit Majumder ahead of the 2021-22 season. They also signed 24-year-old Vishal Kaith.
Debjit had a role in ATK’s winnig in ISL 2016 and Played 4 seasons with Mohun Bagan where he won two I-League trophies (2015 and 2020) as well as the Federation Cup in 2016.
“We are happy to bring in Debjit to support Vishal between the sticks. He will also bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into the dressing room given his time at some top clubs in the country,” Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said.
Debjit said in club media: “I’m really excited to play for Chennaiyin FC and keen to perform and contribute to bring its third title. Vishal is a good goalkeeper and he has been doing well for the last two seasons, so it will be healthy competition in the team. We both will look to bring good results for the team. I’m also looking forward to working closely with the youngsters in the club and passing on the experience.”
Experienced keeper Debjit pulled off 50 saves including two clean sheets in his 15 appearances for the Red & Gold Brigade in last season.
