Odisha FC bolster squad with ISL-winning Spanish midfielder

By
Shoumik Das
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Javi Hernandez (R) in action against Odisha FC in 2020-21 ISL season. (Source: OFC)

Bhubaneswar: Indian Super League (ISL) side Odisha FC have cracked the deal with Spanish attacking midfielder Javi Hernandez ahead of the upcoming season, the club announced on Friday.

The 32-year-old had his last stint with the ATK (Currently ATK Mohun Bagan) playing a pivotal role in their 2019-2020 title-winning campaign. “I am really excited to join Odisha FC and very happy to continue playing in India,” Javi expressed on the move.

 

“I am looking forward to meeting my teammates and we will definitely work hard and play well to make sure that we have a wonderful season ahead. I want to make the Odisha FC fans proud,” he further added.

After coming through the youth ranks of CDF Pizarrales, Salamanca and also with Real Madrid before, the Spanish attacking midfielder made his senior debut for the B side of Los Blancos. After having various spells in the Spanish circuit, Javi moved abroad playing for the Romanian side ACS Poli Timisoara as well as having stints in Poland and Azerbaijan. He has also represented the Spanish U-19 national team.

Javi joined ATK in 2019, winning the title with them while scoring a brace in the final of that season against Chennaiyin FC. The Spaniard was retained by the newly-formed ATK Mohun Bagan in 2020 and has earned 37 caps in the ISL over two seasons.

Odisha are looking to better themselves ar having a horrendous campaign last season finishing at the bottom. Javi’s inclusion could prove fruitful for Kiko Ramirez’s side as they need creative spark upfront to make changes.

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