FC Goa have announced the signing of Spanish defender Odei Onaindia from Hyderabad FC on a free transfer. The 33-year-old centre-back joins the Gaurs after he made his comeback in Hero Indian Super League following his one-year stint at La Liga 2 side CD Mirandes. He made his ISL debut season with Hyderabad FC in 2020-21 – featuring 49 times over his two stints.
Onaindia is a tall and physical defender who is known for his excellent positional sense and ability to read the game. He is also an excellent passer of the ball and is comfortable playing out from the back. He has the experience of playing in Spanish second and third divisions.
The Spaniard’s arrival is a major boost for FC Goa, who are looking to strengthen their defence ahead of the 2023-24 season. Onaindia is likely to form a formidable partnership with Sandesh Jhingan at the heart of the Gaurs’ defence. His arrival will give Manolo Marquez a trusted option at the back.
The gaurs have also secured the signature of Paulo Retre and Carlos Martinez in the foreign department. Domestic signings include Indian National team winger Udanta Singh, Rowlin Borges (loaned from Mumbai City FC), Raynier Fernandes, and Boris Singh. Whereas Anwar Ali, Arshdeep Singh, Iker Guarrotxena, and captain Edu Bedia are some notable departures.
With Onaindia in their ranks, FC Goa will be one of the favorites to challenge for the title in the upcoming season. The Gaurs have a strong squad with a good mix of experience and youth, and they will be hoping to perform better than last season, where they finished ninth on the table. After two seasons of misery, the club are looking to put themselves back on the very top. For the trivia, FC Goa have qualified for the ISL Playoffs the most number of times.
