Kolkata: Defending ISL champions Atletico De Kolkata on Saturday completed the signing of Spanish central defender Jordi Figueras Montel for the upcoming fourth edition of the tournament.
The 30-year old, who has played for La Liga clubs such as Celta de Vigo, Real Betis and Real Valladolid became the sixth signing of the club and their first overseas defender for the season.
Excited to join the new franchise Jordi said, “India is gaining popularity in the global arena post the onset of ISL as we are being able to meet new fans and play some exciting football. I am eagerly looking forward to getting to know my teammates, contribute to our game plan and earn many fans from India.”
Jordi has played for numerous clubs in his career. He spent his youth days in Lleida and had also signed for Real Madrid C team. However, failing to make a single appearance for them, he joined Celta de Vigo in 2008. Initially playing in their B team, Montel soon became the part of the club’s senior team, making 30 league appearances for them, scoring one goal.
The defender, apart from playing in Spain also played in the Belgian Pro League, with Club Brugge. However, his most notable performance came for Real Betis, the club he joined in 2013. He amassed a total of 67 appearances for them, also helping the club in securing a promotion to the top flight division in 2014.
Talking about Montel’s inclusion into the ATK setup, principal owner of the franchise Sanjiv Goenka said in a statement, “We welcome Jordi to our ATK family. Our coaching staff believes in his abilities as a central defender and feels he will be an ideal fit in our scheme of things for the upcoming season.”
Meanwhile ATK reportedly are in talks with English defender Tom Thorpe. Though the club is yet to confirm the signing, Tom’s name features in the team list in ATK’s Wikipedia page.
The former Manchester United player last played for Rotherham United and was a free agent and might join the two-time ISL champions.
The 24-year old defender has also been part of the England national team and has played for the country on numerous divisions and if signed, his inclusion will bolster the ATK defence alongside Jordi.
1 comment
LOL Parichay…the guy played 1 game for Manchester United! 😛