Jamshedpur FC have secured the services of Brazilian defender Eli Sabia ahead of the eight season of the Hero Indian Super League, the club announced on Tuesday. The 33-year old from Sau Paolo has become the fourth overseas signing of the club after the team had roped in players like Peter Hartley, Alex Lima and Nerijus Valskis.

Eli feels the club has big ambitions as a team and he wants to give his best for the side as well as the passionate football fans of the city.

“I see Jamshedpur as a club and a city with big ambition. I want to give my best for the team and the fans who are so passionate about the team. I want to compete to win each match and battle to get the top honours for the club and the fans,” Eli claimed with delight after signing for Jamshedpur FC.

Eli Sabia has the experience of playing four seasons in the Hero ISL as he has played for Chennaiyin FC. The defender had played an instrumental role for the team to finish as the runners-up in the 2019-20 season and had helped the Marina Machans to triumph in Hero Super Cup in 2019.

Jamshedpur FC head coach Owen Coyle is delighted to have the Brazilian on board for the upcoming season.

“Eli is one of the best defenders in the ISL. He is an outstanding personality and is a real team player. He has been playing in the ISL for 4 seasons, one of them with me, and comes with a serial winning mentality.

“Just like Peter, he has a great command in defence and is very organised. His tall and robust presence will provide so much solidity and security at the back. I am looking forward to working with him again,” he said.

Sabia has also played alongside Neymar Jr for Santos during the 2009-10 season. He will don jersey no. 13 for the club.