Indian Super League (ISL) team Jamshedpur FC have strengthened their goalkeeping line-up with the acquisition of seasoned custodian Albino Gomes on a two-year deal with an option to extend based on performance.

The towering goalkeeper, standing at 6 feet 2 inches, has a wealth of experience and an impressive record of 32 clean sheets in the ISL and I-League, making him a valuable addition to the Men of Steel. Gomes’ career highlight was in 2017, when he played under Khalid Jamil’s underdog Aizawl FC side through a phenomenal campaign to win the I-league, with the Goan having played all 18 games with 8 clean sheets.

The talented 30-year-old is well-experienced, having played across teams in the ISL and I-league. He played a crucial role in Sreenidi Deccan FC's run in the I-League 2022–23 season, keeping an impressive seven clean sheets and helping the team finish as runners-up, missing promotion to the ISL by thin margins.

On signing for Jamshedpur FC, Gomes said, "I'm thrilled to be back in the ISL with Jamshedpur FC, a club steeped in history and passion. The energy of the fans here is electric, and I'm proud to be a part of this team. I feel fortunate to play under the guidance of coach Khalid Jamil, and I'm confident to pay his trust back with hard work and performances. I had a tough few seasons due to injury, but worked hard to get back in the I-league over the past two seasons. Now my goal is to prove and establish myself as one of the top goalkeepers in India with Jamshedpur FC in ISL."

Gomes' youth career began at Sporting Clube de Goa, followed by a stint at Salgaocar FC from 2013–15. He made his ISL debut with Mumbai City FC in 2015 and later joined Aizawl FC in 2016-17, playing a crucial role in their championship-winning campaign. Gomes' impressive showings earned him a move to Delhi Dynamos (now Odisha FC) in 2017-18, but a severe knee injury curtailed his season. After recovering, he joined Odisha FC (formerly Delhi Dynamos) in 2019–20 and later moved to Kerala Blasters FC in 2020. He then had stints at Churchill Brothers in 2022 and Sreenidi Deccan FC in 2023.

Head coach Khalid Jamil said about the signing: “I've had the pleasure of working with him before, and I know his capabilities and what he can bring to the table. He understands my expectations, and I'm confident he'll excel in his role. Acquiring Albino Gomes is a significant boost. His wealth of experience in both ISL and I-League, combined with his physicality and ability to integrate, makes him an asset."

NorthEast United FC rope in Robin Yadav

ISL side NorthEast United FC on Saturday announced the signing of 22-year-old defender Robin Yadav. He has signed a multi-year deal with the Highlanders, further strengthening the squad ahead of the new season.

Yadav's move to NorthEast United FC comes after much anticipation, with the club's ambitious project and vision for his development being key factors in his decision. His strong relationship with former coach and current NorthEast United assistant Naushad Moosa also played a significant role in his decision to join the club.

Known for his versatility, Yadav can play multiple positions across the backline, which will be a significant asset to the team. Earlier in the year, Yadav was a part of the U-23 India team, which played two friendlies in Malaysia. He also featured in six games in the ISL last season for Bengaluru FC, clocking over 200 minutes on the field.

He made headlines at the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, where he scored the winning goal for Karnataka in the first-ever domestic final of Indian football held outside the country. His decisive performance helped end a 54-year trophy drought for his state.

Yadav was later adjudged the "Player of the Tournament" in the Santosh Trophy final, having scored a crucial goal in the final and a direct free kick in the semis. Additionally, he has won the Reliance Football Developmental League twice, and after winning the trophy, he was part of the Premier League Next Gen Cup in the United Kingdom, showcasing his talent on an international platform.

Expressing his excitement about the new chapter in his career, Robin Yadav said, “I am thrilled to join NorthEast United FC. The club’s vision for my development is impressive, and I am eager to contribute to the team’s success. The support from the fans and the opportunity to work with the coaching staff excites me. I can't wait to get started and give my best for the club."

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali shared his enthusiasm about the signing: "We are excited to have Robin Yadav join our squad. He is a talented defender with a bright future ahead of him. Yadav's presence will undoubtedly strengthen our defense, and we are looking forward to his contributions on the field."

CEO Mandar Tamhane commented on the signing: "Robin Yadav's signing is a testament to our commitment to building a strong and dynamic team. His decision to join us underscores the potential of our project and our dedication to player development. We are confident that Yadav will be a key player for us in the coming seasons."

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Jamshedpur FCNorthEast United FC2023-2024 Albino Gomes