Indian Super League outfit Bengaluru FC has signed Real Kashmir midfielder Danish Farooq in a two year deal ahead of the 2021-22 season. The talented midfielder from Kashmir became the first player from the valley to sign for the Blues. Farooq will join the team ahead of their AFC Cup Playoffs clash against Maldivian outfit Eagles FC.
Farooq started his professional career for J&K Bank Football academy where he was a captain since his younger days and led them to many age-group titles. He then joined Lonestar Kashmir and after a few impressive performances, he jumped ship to join Real Kashmir.
Since then he has been a very pivotal figure for the Snow Leopards in the I-League and now he will make the move and ply his trade in the Indian Super League. “BFC is one of the best clubs in the country, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to be a part of it. My immediate challenge is to do well in the AFC Cup and the Indian Super League. My ultimate goal is to achieve success with the club and to grow as a player,” said Danish Farooq.
He helped the club gain promotion to the I-League after winning the 2nd Division League. The Snow Leopards then finished third in their first season in the I-League ahead of some of the top clubs in the country.
“Having played with Real Kashmir for five years, I am glad to know that Bengaluru FC was monitoring my progress. When I got a call from my agent, who told me that BFC was interested in signing me, we felt it was the best option for me to grow as both a player and to showcase my talent at the highest level,” added Danish.
The 25-year-old who is predominantly an attacking midfielder can also slot in on either flank and even play in a deeper role in midfield. In the last three seasons, he has amassed 48 appearances for the Snow Leopards in the I-League as he netted seven goals and five assists in that time period. He also played a crucial role in the club’s first major national trophy win when they lifted the 2020 IFA Shield.
“Danish Farooq has the experience of playing in many positions; as a striker, a winger and gives us a lot of options in attack. He’s a good character, has gelled well with the team and with his style of football gives the team a bit of technical quality. Danish was the captain of one of his previous teams, and also brings a bit of his leadership onto the pitch” said Blues’ Head Coach Marco Pezzaiuoli.
