Bhubaneshwar: Odisha FC announced the signing of Brazilian centre-forward Jonathas Cristian de Jesus ahead of the eighth edition of Indian Super League to be played in Goa.
“I am very excited for this new challenge in my career. The project that Odisha FC showed me had a big impact on my decision. I am very motivated and I am looking forward to play in the ISL and achieve greater things with Odisha FC. Ama Team Ama Game!” said the 32-year old Brazil after putting pen to paper.
Jonathas started his career with Brazilian club Cruzeiro in 2006 after playing for their youth set up and had even represented Ipatinga and Villa Nova before moving to Netherlands in 2009 to play for Dutch club AZ. The striker had stints with clubs like Pescara, Torino, Elche Real Sociedad and Hannover 96 in top Leagues across Europe having more than 100 goals to his name
Jonathas who had also donned Brazilian colours in Sendai Cup in 2008 as U-19 star, was with UAE Pro League club Sharja FC before joining the ISL side. During the time he had also started for Hatta Club on loan.
Head Coach Kiko Ramírez was more than happy to have someone with so much experience in the squad. He stated:
“Jonathas has to be our goal scorer. He will give us work inside the pitch and he will make it very difficult for opposing defenders. In addition, he comes to the club with a lot of hunger and motivation to make a big impact in the ISL. Apart from his great character, he has a lot of quality, he is good in the air and he can create chances on his own.”
Jonathas is a great addition to the team and like the head coach his previous stints have made it inevitable to expect quite a number of goals from the forward as Odisha FC prepare to get their hands on their much anticipated ISL trophy.
