Goa signs former Kerala Blasters striker Alvaro Vazquez
Goa has signed former Kerala Blasters forward Alvaro Vazquez to strengthen their team with an aim of challenging for the title in the 2022-23 Indian Super League season after an unusual 2021-22 ISL season in the lower half of the table for the Gaurs.
The 31-year old attacker is delighted with the move and has signed a two-year deal with the Gaurs that lasts till the end of the 2023-24 ISL season.
He said,
“I’m extremely happy to join FC Goa. The club has an ambitious project and a playing style that I love. Having spoken to the Club officials and Edu, I was convinced that I can be the best version of myself here.”
The new signing is aware of the lofty expectations at the club and also talked about playing at the Fatorda Stadium in front of the fans.
He continued,
“For me, Goa is one of the biggest clubs in the Indian Super League. Last season might not have been the best for the Club, but I believe we will surely move back to the top this coming season. I have heard and seen the fans of Goa, who love football. I want to experience playing at Fatorda. Honestly, I can’t wait to play my first game in the club’s colors.”
After starting his career in Spain where Vazquez played under world-class managers like Maurico Pochettino, Luis Garcia, and Quique Sanchez Flores, the Spaniard kept shuttling between boyhood club Espanyol and Getafe making more than 150 appearances in the La Liga.
An ill-fated goalless spell in the English Premier League with Swansea City and loan spells with lower league sides like Real Zaragoza and a permanent move to Sporting Gijon preceded Alvaro’s move to the Indian shores.
In his debut ISL season, Vazquez contributed with 8 goals and 2 assists helping the Blasters reach their first ISL final since 2016 where they lost to eventual winners Hyderabad. Not only the Spaniard’s goal contributions but his work-rate and contribution to the movement of the ball was praised by fans and pundits alike as Vazquez eventually engineered a move to Goa.
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FC Goa Director of Football Ravi Puskur talked about the failed move for the striker during the last summer transfer window and how they acted swiftly to secure his signature in the last few days.
He said,
“We’re delighted to secure the services of Alvaro. He’s someone we’ve always kept an eye on long before his arrival into Indian football and given he’s already adapted to India, we moved quickly this summer to secure his services when the opportunity arose.”
Mr. Puskur further talked about how the UEFA U21 European Championship winner contributes to the general gameplay and praised his ability to adapt to the surroundings.He concluded,
“His quality on and off the ball is undeniable and fans of Indian football are well aware of his technical prowess. We’re confident he will slot in seamlessly into the team and with our style of football, I’m sure he’ll be a success.”