In a landmark move for the Indian Super League (ISL), 28-year-old French-Moroccan midfielder Hugo Boumous has transferred to Odisha FC from Mohun Bagan Super Giant. This high-profile signing is a strategic move by the Juggernauts, aiming to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Hugo Boumous will reunite with coach Sergio Lobera, under whom he previously thrived at FC Goa and Mumbai City FC. Boumous has been a pivotal figure in Indian football since 2020, playing for ATK Mohun Bagan, now rebranded as Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Boumous’ list of accolades is impressive, boasting 2 ISL Playoff Cups, 3 ISL League Shields, 1 Super Cup, and 1 Durand Cup. His individual honours include the ISL Golden Ball, highlighting his status as one of the league’s top performers. Additionally, he ranks among the top assist providers in ISL history, reflecting his critical role in setting up goals and orchestrating plays.

Boumous first made a significant impact in the ISL with FC Goa, where his outstanding performances earned him the ISL Golden Ball in the 2019-2020 season. His dribbling skills, vision, and ability to deliver incisive passes quickly made him a standout player and a fan favourite. His form continued at Mumbai City FC, where he played a crucial role in securing the ISL League Winners Shield and the ISL title under Lobera’s management.

At Mohun Bagan, Boumous maintained his high standards, contributing significantly to the team’s midfield dynamics. His efforts helped the team win the 2022-23 ISL Playoffs Final and the 2023 Durand Cup, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s elite midfielders.

Boumous’ move to Odisha FC reunites him with Sergio Lobera, a coach who has been instrumental in harnessing his talents. Lobera recently renewed his contract with the Juggernauts, and his tactical acumen, combined with Boumous’s technical skills, promises to create a formidable partnership. This duo has previously achieved significant success at Mumbai City FC, and their reunion is expected to bolster Odisha’s chances in the upcoming season.

Odisha FC is keen on building on their recent successes, having reached the ISL playoffs for the first time in their history last season. Boumous’ signing is a clear statement of intent from the Kalinga Warriors as they aim to challenge the more established teams like Mumbai City and Mohun Bagan. His decision to join Odisha was driven by a desire for a new challenge and the opportunity to work again with Lobera, who is focused on building a robust and competitive squad.

Boumous’ presence in the midfield, alongside the experienced Ahmed Jahouh, is expected to bring a blend of creativity, experience, and flair to Odisha FC. This transfer not only strengthens the team but also raises the overall competitiveness of the ISL. Indian football fans are eagerly anticipating how Boumous’ addition will influence Odisha’s performance and whether he can replicate his past successes under Lobera’s familiar guidance.