Pune: ISL franchise FC Pune City has made one of the biggest signings as they have roped in last season’s, ‘Golden Boot’ winner Marcelo Leite Pereira, known to all as Marcelinho. The Brazilian had a tremendous impact on the third edition of the ISL as he had established himself to be one of the crucial members for semi-finalists Delhi Dynamos. He had netted 10 goals in 15 appearances and also had five assists to his name. The winger had also played in countries like Spain, Greece and Italy.
FC Pune City Head coach Antonio Habas had words of praise for the South American and said that he would be a crucial part of their plans if they are to achieve the desired results.
“Marcelinho is one of the most accomplished attackers we have seen in Indian Super League. He has the versatility to play on wings as well as in front of the net along with great pace to match his abilities. These qualities will be of great help to the team and hope we can achieve results that we aim for in the coming season,” said Habas.
The Brazilian has an experience of over a decade in the game as he played for clubs like Atletico Madrid B, Getafe B and Greek clubs like Skoda Xanthi F.C., Atromitos Athens, Kalamataamong etc.
Marcelinho was an excited man after he was signed by the Pune franchise and said that coach Habas’ vision for the club drew his interested.
He said, “It’s exciting times ahead as I join FC Pune City. Antonio Habas is a great coach to work with and his vision for the club is something that got me excited. I will give my 100 % and ensure my stint with FC Pune City gives the Orange Army many reasons to celebrate.”
FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel too was happy that a man of Marcelinho’s calibre would represent Pune in the upcoming edition of the ISL.
He said, “Marcelinho has a great appetite for scoring and caused some serious damage to other teams’ defence in ISL last season. He is a busy player on the pitch, always in the thick of things – setting the pace, assisting and finding the back of the net. I know our fans really wanted him to don the FC Pune City jersey! Welcome Marcelinho.”
Earlier, they had signed forward Emiliaro Alfaro and Spanish midfielder Marcos Tebar. Marcelinho is their third signing as they are on their way in building up a strong team for the upcoming edition of the ISL.
After not doing well despite occasionally good performances in the past, FC Pune has gone for signings that would help them dominate over the other teams had finally take them across the line.