Chennaiyin FC brings in Romanian winger Dragos Firtulescu on a free transfer. The club based in Chennai announced the signing of the 30-year-old winger here on Saturday. Dragos last represented FC Dunav in Bulgaria last season and scored three goals in his 11 appearances for the club. The pacey winger has also represented Dinamo Bucharest in his career and has faced his current teammate Lucian Goian in the past at Liga I.
The 30-year-old winger signed in favor of Chennaiyin FC for the duration of the 2019-20 season of Indian Super League. Dragos Firtulescu becomes the second Romanian to be signed for Chennaiyin FC this season after the acquisition of Romanian central defender Lucian Goain. The left-footed winger hailing from Romania wants to add another trophy to the club’s trophy cabinet. Dragos said that, “I’m very happy to sign with the two-time ISL champions Chennaiyin FC. I wish to taste success with the club and create lasting memories in my time here.”
He also added that, “I’ve confidence in the Head Coach’s (John Gregory) plans, and I wish to repay the faith bestowed in me with my performances on the pitch. It feels great to be part of the Chennaiyin family.” Head coach John Gregory feels that the winger will add a lot of depth in an attacking context for the team.
Chennaiyin FC also made the announcement about Brazilian Raphael Augusto after mutually parting ways with the midfielder. Raphael Augusto has been a crucial player for the club over the years and has played a pivotal role for the club’s two titles in the Indian Super League. Augusto has made a total of 68 appearances for the club in all competitions and has scored seven goals and six assists to his name. In fact, Raphael Augusto’s goal against Bengaluru FC in the 2017-18 final proved to be the winner, as Chennaiyin went on to lift their second trophy in the Indian Super League.
Cheanniyin FC also confirmed the departures of Mohammed Rafi, CK Vineeth and Halicharan Narzary. Mohammed Rafi leaves Chennaiyin FC after spending two seasons with the club scoring 5 goals in his 21 appearances across all competitions. CK Vineeth and Halicharan Narzary depart from Chennaiyin FC following the end of their loan spell from Kerala Blasters FC, having joined in January this year. CK Vineeth made 17 appearances and scored four times, which included a goal in the AFC cup competition. Halicharan Narzary made just three appearances for CFC during his loan spell.