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Bolstering their defensive ranks ahead of the new season, Indian Super League (ISL) heavyweights FC Goa secured the signing of Indian stalwart Sandesh Jhingan on a three-year contract, which will keep him with the Gaurs till 2026.
"FC Goa can confirm that the Club has completed the signing of one of Indian football’s most well-known names and the national team’s commander-in-chief in defence, Sandesh Jhingan," the club announced in a press release.
The 29-year-old's previous contract with Bengaluru FC ran out at the end of May and hence he'll join Goa as a free transfer.
After losing out on Anwar Ali, who is set to join Mohun Bagan Super Giants next season, the Gaurs had set their sights on the center-back to fill the gaping hole in the squad. Jhingan is the third Indian international to join their ranks this summer, following the arrivals of Rowllin Borges and Udanta Singh.
Commenting on the signing, Ravi Puskur, FC Goa’s Director of Football averred in the press release:
“We are excited about the impact Sandesh will make, both on and off the pitch. His experience, expertise, and leadership will contribute significantly to our collective growth and success. As FC Goa moves forward with renewed determination, we eagerly anticipate the positive influence Sandesh will have.”
"Happy at the chance to represent what is a fantastic football club" - Sandesh Jhingan on signing with FC Goa
Sandesh Jhingan has become a part of Indian football's fabric with his constant contribution at club and national level. The Punjab-born defender set off on his professional career with United Sikkim in 2011.
Sandesh Jhingan rose to fame after emerging as one of the top picks by Kerala Blasters (KBFC) during the maiden players’ draft of the ISL in 2014. During his six-year stay at the club, Sandesh became a mainstay in their backline and wore the captain's armband too.
In 2020, he moved to Mohun Bagan SG (previously known as ATK Mohun Bagan), before plying his trade in Croatia for HNK Sibenik. Following another spell with the Mariners, Simon Grayson and Bengaluru FC sealed his signature at the start of the 2022-23 season. The club went on to win the Durand Cup and reach the finals of both ISL and Hero Super Cup, with Jhingan marshaling their backline.
Now, the defensive stalwart is eager to write the next chapter in his illustrous career with FC Goa.
“I am happy at the chance to represent what is a fantastic football club. FC Goa have, and keep doing so many things consistently well, so to be able to contribute to that effort is something I am looking forward to,” Jhingan said after signing on the dotted line for the Gaurs.
“I am excited to link up with my new teammates, the coaching staff and learn from all of them. Needless to say, I’m excited about the prospect of playing in front of the fans of this football club, who always seem to bring a fantastic atmosphere with them to the games,” he added.
Although a lot has said about Sandesh Jhingan's ability on the ball, without an iota of doubt, the national team defender is a rock-solid presence for any club on his day. The Gaurs will be hoping he can smoothly fill the void left by the departure of Anwar.
