"This return will be so special" - Spanish forward Iker Guarrotxena after rejoining FC Goa ahead of 2024-25 season

FC Goa have announced the return of Spanish forward Iker Guarrotxena for the upcoming 2024-25 season, making him their first overseas signing of the summer. The 31-year-old, who previously played for the Gaurs under Carlos Pena, will replace fellow Spaniard Carlos Martinez.

Guarrotxena first joined FC Goa in the 2022-23 season from Spanish club Logrones. In his debut season, he played various positions but thrived as a centre-forward, scoring 13 goals and finishing as the club’s top scorer.

After just one season, he returned to Spain with Real Murcia, but he came back to India in January to play for Mumbai City FC, where he made an immediate impact. Despite an injury towards the end of the season that caused him to miss the final few matches, his performances were impressive enough to convince FC Goa to re-sign him.

Speaking to the club media after signing the contract, Guarrotxena expressed his excitement of returning to the club and his belief that the team can compete for major honors.

“To be back in Goa is not just about returning back to play for a former team - it means a whole lot for me. I am back where I feel at home, and reuniting with several friends who I had to part ways with much earlier than when I would’ve liked. This return will be so special - and of course I’m coming back to a team where I believe I can win.

“I’m coming not just because I love the city and the club, it’s also very much because I deeply believe we can lift some trophies in this upcoming season. I am so excited to celebrate something with all Goans,” Guarrotxena stated (via FC Goa media)

Head coach Manolo Marquez was also thrilled with the signing, and believes that Guarrotxena’s experience in India will be vital for the Gaurs.

"We are delighted to welcome Iker back to FC Goa. He’s a complete player with great spirit and character, and is well-acquainted with Indian football. With Mumbai City FC last season in Mumbai, he was both decisive and dangerous, scoring crucial goals. His experience and ability, along with the familiarity with our playing style and previous success with the Club, make him a tremendous addition to the squad,” Marquez said.

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FC Goa will continue to search for quality overseas players in the transfer market

After a successful season that saw them finish just four points behind ISL Shield winner Mohun Bagan Super Giant, expectations at FC Goa are certainly high. However, the club have already seen several key players depart and need a rebuild.

Noah Sadaoui, who scored 29 goals for the club in two seasons, has moved to Kerala Blasters FC, while club captain and long-time servant Brandon Fernandes has joined Mumbai City FC. Additionally, the departures of Victor Rodriguez, Dheeraj Singh, and a few other players have left gaps in the squad that need to be filled.

In terms of arrivals, the Gaurs have signed left-back Akash Sangwan from Chennaiyin FC and goalkeeper Lara Sharma from Bengaluru FC. Moreover, they have added significant depth in the centre-back position by signing Real Kashmir FC’s Muhammad Hammad. More arrivals, especially from the overseas contingent, are expected this month as the Durand Cup approaches.