Two-time Indian Super League champions Chennaiyin FC ropes in former Mumbai City FC defender Lucian Goian on a free transfer and parted ways with Brazilian center back Mailson Alves. After the announcement of Lithuanian forward Nerijus Valskis, Chennaiyin FC has announced the signing of Romanian defender Lucian Goian here on Tuesday.
Mailson Alves has been a stand out defender for Chennaiyin FC in the past two seasons and has led the Indian Super League side as well. The Brazilian defender has scored a total of eight goals in his 56 appearances for the Chennai based club. Mailson Alves has scored a goal for Chennaiyin FC in the AFC Cup competitions as well in his six appearances. The center back from Brazil was a key player in John Gregory’s plan in the past two seasons of Chennaiyin FC and scored two goals against Bengaluru FC in finals of Indian Super League 2017-18 season.
New signing, Lucian Goian has also been a strong leader for Mumbai City FC and led his side finish third in the last edition of Indian Super League. The 36-year-old defender has the experience of playing all around the world including UEFA Champions league qualifiers and also has an assist in Europa League to his name in his four appearances. Lucian has scored three goals for Mumbai City FC in his 53 appearances for the club in Indian Super League and the Romanian initially started his career as a striker.
“It feels great to sign with Chennaiyin. The coach (John Gregory) played a huge role in me coming here (to CFC). When he asked me if I wish to return to India to win the ISL trophy, I simply said yes. I believe Chennaiyin along with John (Gregory) are a club that knows how to win trophies, and I can’t wait to get started and give my absolute 100% on the pitch,” said the Romanian defender.
Chennaiyin FC’s gaffer John Gregory is excited to bring him into his side and added that, “In Lucian (Goian), we are signing a leader who has rich experience in Indian football. His commitment and aggression on the pitch has been quite evident from his time in Mumbai.” The addition of Lucian Goian will be a big boost for the club considering the release of Mailson Alves and Goian could be a good leader to take forward the club.