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Chennaiyin FC have confirmed the addition of experienced defender Mandar Rao Dessai, marking their seventh signing of the summer. The 32-year-old joins the Marina Machans from East Bengal FC on a two-year deal.
The Goa-born left-back, who has been a consistent presence in the ISL, started his career in the I-League with Dempo before moving to FC Goa during the inaugural ISL season in 2014.
During his six-year stay with the Gaurs, Dessai made over 100 appearances and won the Super Cup in 2019 and the ISL Shield title in 2020.
Following his time with his hometown club, Dessai followed Sergio Lobera to Mumbai City FC, where he stayed for three more seasons before moving to East Bengal FC at the start of last summer.
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Overall, Dessai has made 155 appearances in the ISL and won the ISL Shield title on three separate occasions. Speaking to Chennaiyin FC media after completing his move, he expressed his delight in joining the two-time champions.
"Chennaiyin is a champion club. They’ve been champion two times and have been to playoffs so many times. I’ve played against them before and they always tried to have a good team. The coach also told me that I can be a good example for the youngsters and help the team grow,” (via CFC Media)
Head coach Owen Coyle highlighted the defender’s experience, emphasizing the value it will bring to Chennaiyin FC’s youthful squad.
“In Mandar Rao Dessai we have got bags of experience coming in at left back. He’s a wonderful defender who can honestly say he knows the Indian football scene better than most, having made more appearances than nearly any other player in the history of the league.”
Dessai is set to replace Akash Sangwan, who joined FC Goa after his contract with Chennaiyin FC expired this May. His versatility will certainly be a useful asset for the club, as he can play in the full-back position, central midfield, or even as a winger.
Chennaiyin FC continue to make moves in the transfer market ahead of the 2024-25 season
Chennaiyin FC have been proactive in improving the quality of the squad. They signed four players from Jamshedpur FC, including defenders Laldinpuia PC and Elsinho Dias, forward Daniel Chima Chukwu, and midfielder Jitendra Singh, all of whom had their contracts expire with the Red Miners.
Chennaiyin have also brought in Mohun Bagan forward Kiyan Nassiri and Punjab FC striker Wilmar Jordan Gil. More signings are expected, with rumors suggesting deals with Mumbai City FC’s Gurkirat Singh and Mohammad Nawaz, and the addition of Mohun Bagan SG youngster Lalrinliana Hnamte.
On the departure front, Akash Sangwan, Debjit Majumder, Mobashir Rahman, and Sarthak Golui have left the club, along with Rafael Crivellaro and Jordan Murray. The rebuild process is underway, but Owen Coyle will want to complete all signings before the pre-season starts in July.
