Indian Super League (ISL) outfit NorthEast United FC have acquired the services of midfielder Mayakkannan Muthu, the club announced on Wednesday through its social media outlets.

The 27-year-old Tamil Nadu-born defensive midfielder has joined the Highlanders from I-League side Sreenidi Deccan FC. Muthu will strengthen the Highlanders’ midfield with his versatility and qualities to operate as a box-to-box midfielder.

Expressing his delight at joining NorthEast United FC, Muthu said: “I am thrilled to join NorthEast United FC. The ambition of the club and the vision they have for the future really motivated me to come here. I am excited to work with the team and contribute to our success in the upcoming seasons.”

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali remarked: “We are very pleased to have Mayakkannan (Muthu) join us. His versatility and work ethic make him a valuable addition to our midfield. I look forward to working with him and helping him develop further as we aim for greater achievements this season.”

Mandar Tamhane, CEO of NorthEast United FC, added: “Muthu is a naturally gifted footballer we’ve had our eyes on for a while now. We see great potential in him, and with the technical staff we have here, he has the opportunity to grow into a top-class midfielder. We are confident that he will make a significant impact on our squad.”

Rei Tachikawa signs an extension with Jamshedpur FC

Indian Super League (ISL) club Jamshedpur FC announced the extension of Japanese midfielder Rei Tachikawa for the upcoming two seasons.

Tachikawa's inaugural season with Jamshedpur FC showcased his invaluable contribution to the team. The 26-year-old appeared in 22 matches across the ISL and Kalinga Super Cup, scoring five goals and creating 25 chances. Tachikawa is the first foreign signing announced and will continue to be a key part of the squad as it begins its preparations under head coach Khalid Jamil.

Khalid expressed his delight at having Tachikawa in the squad, saying, “Rei (Tachikawa) has proven himself to be a technical and high-tempo player who not only scores goals but also creates numerous opportunities for his teammates. Retaining Tachikawa is adding steel to the squad, with his versatility and competitive spirit being an asset. He has a tough mentality and is a fighter who gives his all for the team, which is what I look for in every player during training and games.”

Tachikawa was one of the top-performing foreign players of Asian origin in the ISL last season. He joined Jamshedpur FC from Maltese side Sirens FC in 2023, where he had already made a name for himself with 23 appearances and two goals. His journey in European football began with Portuguese side Perafita and continued with Felgueiras before moving to Malta with Santa Lucia. Tachikawa’s experience and adaptability have been evident throughout his career, making him a pivotal player for Jamshedpur FC.

Reflecting on his journey so far, Tachikawa expressed his excitement about continuing with the club. “I’m thrilled to stay with Jamshedpur FC,” said Tachikawa.

“The support from the fans and the unique culture of Jharkhand and India have made my time here thoroughly enjoyable. I am looking to build on last season's performance and contribute more to help the club achieve new milestones,” he added.

FC Goa extend goalkeeper Arshdeep's contract

Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Goa have extended the contract of goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh for two seasons, which will run until the end of the 2025–26 season.

Singh’s exceptional performances over the past two seasons have been key to the Gaurs' success, and this new deal reflects the club’s confidence in his abilities and commitment to the team’s future.

The 26-year-old, who began his career at the AIFF Elite Academy, first rose to prominence with Minerva Punjab FC, where he featured in their triumphant I-League campaign in 2017–18 and the 2019 AFC Cup. His talent soon caught the eye of Odisha FC, and he went on to make 33 appearances for them over three seasons.

The Punjab-based footballer has been a cornerstone of the defensive lineup since joining FC Goa at the start of the 2022–23 season. In his 17 appearances for the Gaurs in the ISL, he has conceded just 14 goals, boasting eight clean sheets. His overall tally for the Gaurs includes 11 clean sheets from 21 matches.

Head coach Manolo Marquez expressed his enthusiasm for Singh’s continued presence: “Arshdeep (Singh) is an excellent fit for our playing style. His composure and skill with the ball at his feet make him an important part of our team. With his experience in the ISL and his ideal age, he doesn’t just excel as a goalkeeper but can also initiate our build-ups from the back during attacks.”

“Extending his contract is a significant step in our long-term plans, and I am confident that he will continue to play a key role in our pursuit of success.”

Reflecting on his contract extension, Arshdeep Singh said, “I am incredibly grateful to FC Goa for the faith they have shown in me. My time here has been immensely rewarding, and I am excited to continue this journey with the club. The support from the fans and the team has been fantastic, and I look forward to contributing more to the team in the coming years.”

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2023-2024