FC Goa has bolstered its attacking options ahead of the 2025–26 Indian Super League season with the signings of forwards Ishan Pandita and Daniel Lalhlimpuia, the club announced on Sunday.

The move marks a homecoming for Pandita, who returns to the Gaurs after most recently featuring in the Kerala Super League with Malappuram FC. Pandita was part of FC Goa during the formative years of his Indian Super League career, where he quickly built a reputation as an impact substitute. His ability to score decisive goals off the bench made him a valuable asset and a fan favourite during his earlier stint.

Pandita’s late strikes were instrumental in extending FC Goa’s famous unbeaten run during the 2020–21 season. His knack for finding space inside the box and arriving at the right moment often proved decisive in tight matches, underlining his reputation as a reliable finisher when the team needed inspiration.

Following his departure from FC Goa, Pandita went on to represent Jamshedpur FC and Kerala Blasters FC in the ISL. His most notable achievement came in the 2021–22 season with Jamshedpur FC, where he was part of the squad that lifted the ISL League Shield, adding a major honour to his growing résumé.

FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez expressed confidence in Pandita’s return and highlighted his qualities. “Ishan Pandita, despite still being young, is at the best age to play football and already has a lot of experience in the ISL. One of his best moments also came with the national team and in his first season in India he scored many goals with FC Goa. These next 13 games will be very different, with many teams playing without foreign players in this position. Players like Ishan will have a great opportunity to show their quality. He is strong in the air, has a very good shot, and will be a valuable addition to our young team,’’ Marquez said.

Alongside Pandita, FC Goa have also added Lalhlimpuia, a forward who has been part of the ISL ecosystem since 2016. Over the years, he has featured for several clubs, including Mumbai City FC, Jamshedpur FC, Odisha FC, Chennaiyin FC and Bengaluru FC.

With the additions of Pandita and Lalhlimpuia, FC Goa have added experience and depth to their frontline as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming ISL season.