BFC sign Diaz, Noguera, Ralte; OFC extend Ranawade’s stay; Lalhlimpuia joins MCFC
Full-back Amey Ranawade extended his loan stay at Odisha FC; while Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC announced new arrivals.
Indian Super League (ISL) club Bengaluru FC have further strengthened their squad with the signing of Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Alberto Noguera, and Lalthuammawia Ralte.
Diaz and Noguera, both part of Mumbai City FC's ISL Cup-winning team, have signed a one-year contract with the Blues. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ralte has also returned to his former club after three seasons, marking his third stint with Bengaluru FC.
A serial goalscorer and match winner! 🇦🇷
— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) July 7, 2024
Argentine attacker Jorge Pereyra Diaz bolsters the Blues’ firing line for the upcoming season. 💥#WeAreBFC #DiazIsBlue #TheBluesAreBack pic.twitter.com/jhWBNQRrEI
Since making his ISL debut in the 2021–22 season, Diaz has proven himself as a prolific goal-scorer, tallying 29 goals in 58 games with his sharp movements and shooting prowess inside the opponent's box. The 33-year-old Argentine is widely recognized for his offensive threat and ability to score goals.
Diaz has been instrumental for Mumbai City FC over the past two seasons, playing a crucial role in their league triumph in the 2022–23 season and cup victory in the 2023–24 season.
In his debut ISL season with Mumbai City FC, Diaz was the joint second-highest goalscorer. Last season, he topped the club's scoring charts with 10 goals, sharing the honour with Lallianzuala Chhangte.
Having previously played for Kerala Blasters and Mumbai City FC, Diaz brings valuable experience to Bengaluru FC's attacking lineup, where he is set to feature alongside Sunil Chhetri and Ryan Williams.
Adding Spanish flair to our midfield. 🇪🇸
— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) July 7, 2024
Madrid-born Alberto Noguera is all set to bring the Kanteerava alive as the playmaker joins the club ahead of the 2024-25 season. 👊🏽🔵#WeAreBFC #SwagataNoguera #TheBluesAreBack pic.twitter.com/XpK2FO0VsI
Like Diaz, Alberto Noguera has also joined Bengaluru FC after enjoying two successful years with Mumbai City FC, making them the third Indian club for both players.
The Spanish midfielder joined Mumbai City FC in the 2022–23 season after winning the Durand Cup with FC Goa in 2020–21. In the league, Noguera has appeared in 72 matches, scoring nine goals and providing 13 assists.
Known for his attacking flair and agility in midfield, the 34-year-old playmaker has been pivotal, averaging 42 passes per game over the last four years. He has created 118 chances and succeeded in 128 dribbles, maintaining an 85% passing accuracy.
During his time with Mumbai City FC, Noguera contributed to winning the ISL League Shield and ISL Cup.
Back between the sticks for the Blues. Lalthuammawia Ralte returns to Bengaluru for a third stint with the club. Welcome home, Mawia. 💙🏟️#WeAreBFC #RalteReturns #TheBluesAreBack pic.twitter.com/fDLha180Zq
— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) July 7, 2024
Lalthuammawia Ralte has re-joined Bengaluru FC for his third stint with the club. The goalkeeper spent the last two seasons with Odisha FC but featured in only one game during the 2023–24 season, primarily serving as backup to Amrinder Singh, Odisha FC's primary goalkeeper.
The 31-year-old shot-stopper was honoured with the 'Goalkeeper of the Tournament' award at the Kalinga Super Cup 2024, where he kept three clean sheets for Odisha DC.
Ralte has made four ISL appearances so far, keeping one clean sheet.
Amey Ranawade extends his loan stay at Odisha FC
Indian Super League (ISL) side Odisha FC have announced the extension of defender Amey Ranawade’s loan contract, which will keep him with the Kalinga Warriors until the end of the 2024–25 season.
𝘼𝙈𝙀𝙔-𝐙𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒! 📝
— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) July 7, 2024
We're delighted to announce that Amey Ranawade's loan deal from Mumbai City FC has been extended for another season!
The versatile defender will continue to bolster our backline and don the #KalingaWarriors jersey 💜🔥#OdishaFC #AmaTeamAmaGame… pic.twitter.com/817elrnrag
The right-back enjoyed a stellar season under the guidance of Sergio Lobera, becoming a regular starter for Odisha FC during the ISL 2023–24 season. Ranawade made significant contributions with seven-goal involvements (one goal and six assists), the highest among defenders.
In his 24 appearances last season, he played a total of 2149 minutes, averaging 32 passes per game. He also won 35 tackles, succeeded in 86 duels, and completed 93 recoveries, contributing to Odisha FC's eight clean sheets. Ranawade played a pivotal role in Odisha FC's historic qualification for the semi-finals.
Since his ISL debut in the 2019–20 season, Ranawade has featured in 59 games. The 26-year-old achieved career-best performances at Odisha FC and will continue with the Kalinga Warriors for another season.
Daniel Lalhlimpuia joins Mumbai City FC
Mumbai City FC, an Indian Super League (ISL) club, has acquired the services of Daniel Lalhlimpuia. The striker joins the Islanders on a one-year contract until the end of the 2024–25 season.
𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗶 🩵
— Mumbai City FC (@MumbaiCityFC) July 8, 2024
मंडळी, let's welcome @DanielLhpa to #AamchiCity 🙌#WelcomeDaniel #MumbaiCity 🔵 pic.twitter.com/WcoS7vSA1K
Hailing from Mizoram, the 26-year-old began his football career at the Chandigarh Football Academy before moving to the AIFF Elite Academy. He has represented the national team at several youth levels, captaining the U-19 team, and made his senior national team debut in 2016.
At the club level, Bengaluru FC granted him his professional debut in the I-League. Lalhlimpuia gained ISL experience with Chennaiyin FC on loan and later played for Delhi Dynamos, Odisha FC, and Punjab FC, and has made over 130 club appearances in total.
Lalhlimpuia's playing style and characteristics align with the Islanders' philosophy and values and will further strengthen the team's attack.
Daniel Lalhlimpuia said:
"It's a dream come true for me to join Mumbai City FC. The club's environment is highly regarded, and I'm excited to train with the best players in the country. I can't wait to begin this new chapter of my life with Mumbai City FC and contribute in every way possible to help the team achieve its objectives for the upcoming season."
Petr Kratky – Head Coach, of Mumbai City FC, said:
"Daniel (Lalhlimpuia) is a talented player who fits our playing style and is committed to working hard. We believe he will be a great addition to our attacking unit and can contribute to achieving our targets. We welcome Daniel (Lalhlimpuia) to the club and look forward to working with him."
Jamshedpur FC bid farewell to Alen Stevanovic
Indian Super League (ISL) side Jamshedpur FC announced the departure of Alen Stevanovic, who has left the club after spending a year with the Men of Steel.
Farewell to our Men of Steel, Alen Stevanovic!
— Jamshedpur FC (@JamshedpurFC) July 7, 2024
Your legacy will forever stand tall.⚽🦾 Best wishes for your next chapter! 👊 #JamKeKhelo #ThankYouAlen pic.twitter.com/ZWnVznpHv3
The Serbian forward featured in 16 ISL games last season but did not score a goal. However, Stevanovic played a crucial role with his creative movements and build-up play.
Stevanovic completed 159 successful passes, created 10 chances, succeeded in 10 dribbles, and won 29 duels. With 730 minutes of playtime, he made 28 touches in the opposition box and attempted four shots on target.