Indian Super League side Odisha FC are gradually making their moves in the transfer market as they announced the signing of Amey Ranawade on a season-long loan deal from Mumbai City FC. The defender reunited with his former coach Sergio Lobera as Odisha FC prepare for the upcoming season and their first-ever AFC Cup.
The defender has made a name for himself courtesy of his consistent performances for Mumbai City FC. Therefore he will be a key addition to this Odisha FC squad.
Ranawade started his career at DSK Shivajians and gradually showcased his potential before earning a move to Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan where he won the Calcutta Football League in the 2018-19 season. He then featured for FC Goa and Bengaluru United and gain valuable first-team experience.
But it was his move to Mumbai City FC which changed his fate completely. His performances for the Islanders helped him gain the national spotlight as his performances kept improving with every other game. He grew in statute under the guidance of Lobera at Mumbai and now the duo will reunite at Odisha. He was crucial for Mumbai City FC in the 2020-21 season where they won the ISL League Winner’s Shield and the ISL Champions trophy.
The Odisha FC team management will hope that Ranawade under the guidance of Lobera will be able to replicate those performances. He has the experience, technical ability and temperament to help the team scale new heights.
The Kalinga Warriors also added more experience when they signed midfielder Lenny Rodrigues on a one-year deal with an option to extend another year. The veteran midfielder was previously with ATK Mohun Bagan and brings a lot of composure, calmness and experience to their midfield and also to their dressing room.
Lenny has delivered some stellar performances for many clubs all across the country. He has played for the likes of Churchill Brothers, Dempo SC and has also represented Bengaluru FC and ATK Mohun Bagan. He also played a big role in FC Goa’s Super Cup triumph in 2019. He has also won the I-League title twice, along with the ISL League winner’s Shield, Federation Cup and also Durand Cup.
He will bring in a lot of calmness and composure in midfield which is needed sometimes amidst a lot of chaos in the middle. He can control the tempo of the game, distribute the ball effectively and has exceptional passing ability coupled with his experience. He will look to help the young players on and off the pitch. It is definitely a very good addition for Odisha FC.
