With the transfer season buzzing in the run-up to Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2015 this October, NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) recently announced their latest signing. French custodian Gennaro Bracigliano joins the John Abraham owned club from Chennaiyin FC, with whom he reached the semi-finals last year. This year, however, he shall be handling the twin mantle of goalkeeper as well as goalkeeping coach. The addition of Bracigliano would mean that the Highlanders have now tick-marked their mandatory quota of three goalkeepers.“Rehenesh [T.P.] and Lalthuammawia [Ralte] are two talented boys. Together, we will give our all for the team.” is what the imposing shot-stopper had to say about his new teammates. The Frenchman comes in with 15 years of experience between the sticks, with a major part of those spent in the French professional football circuit. Beginning his youth career with Ligue 2 side AS Nancy-Lorraine, he graduated to the senior team in 1996. His career at the Stade Marcel Picot lasted for 15 solid years; he’d spent two years on loan at different clubs – CS Louhans-Cuiseaux (2001-02) and Angers SCO (2002-03).Initially, on the bench, AS Nancy-Lorraine preferred loaning him out to Louhans and then, eventually, Angers. Marking his return to Nancy in 2003-04 season, his performances improved considerably over the years, resulting in over 200 appearances for the club throughout his career. A diligent sportsman, he is known for his aerial prowess and being a team player. His save percentage stands out at 64.15% from his performances in the inaugural ISL season. Fans at Chennai still remember his miraculous double-save against Kerala Blasters FC in the semi-finals of last year’s edition.With 3 clean sheets in 13 games in ISL 2014, Gennaro was an indomitable force for the Chennaiyin FC squad. He also gushed about joining the Assam-based club before revealing his aspirations, “The NEUFC fans are amazing, one of the best fan-bases in the country. I can’t wait! This year, I come to NEUFC to aim for the title. I would like to thank Chennaiyin FC for last year. We had great memories. Now I am focussed on NorthEast United!”It would be a fresh change seeing him perform a dual role as a player as well as a coach— working in tandem with new head coach Cesar Farias. Gennaro Bracigliano and NorthEast United FC will begin their season on the road against last year’s finalists Kerala Blasters FC on October 6th.
