In a massive move in the Indian Super League, 28-year-old French-Moroccan midfielder Hugo Boumous has transferred to Odisha FC from Mohun Bagan Super Giant. This transfer marks a significant signing for the Juggernauts, who are keen on strengthening their squad further ahead of the upcoming season.
Hugo Boumous, known for his creative playmaking abilities and technical prowess, reunites with coach Sergio Lobera, under whose guidance he previously flourished at Goa and Mumbai. Since 2020 he has been playing for ATK Mohun Bagan, now the Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
Hugo has 2 ISL Playoff Cups, 3 ISL League Shields, 1 Super Cup, 1 Durand Cup in his list of career honours, along with multiple other individual awards in the Indian Football Circuit. The midfielder also ranks among the top assist providers in the league’s history.
Hugo’s journey in Indian football has been remarkable. He first made a mark in the ISL with FC Goa, where his performances earned him the ISL Golden Ball in the 2019-2020 season. His exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and ability to deliver incisive passes quickly made him one of the league’s standout players and fan favorite.
This form continued at Mumbai City, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s success, helping them clinch the ISL League Winners Shield and the ISL title under Lobera’s management. At Mohun Bagan, the 28-year-old maintained his high standards, contributing significantly to the team’s midfield dynamics as he helped them win the 22/23 ISL Playoffs Final, and 2023 Durand Cup.
The move to Odisha comes at a time when the club is looking to rebuild and make a stronger impact in the league next season, after reaching the ISL playoffs for the first time in their history last season. Coach Sergio Lobera, who recently renewed his contract with the Juggernauts, has been instrumental in bringing Boumous on board.
Their previous successful stint at Mumbai City is expected to translate into a fruitful partnership at Odisha as well. Lobera’s tactical acumen and Boumous’s technical skills are anticipated to work well together, potentially transforming Odisha into a more formidable contender in the ISL. After all, Boumous has enjoyed his best football under the Spanish tactician.
Boumous’ decision to move was influenced by a desire for a new challenge and a reunion with Lobera, who is keen on building a robust squad. This transfer is also indicative of the Kalinga Warriors’ ambitions, as they aim to climb higher in the league standings and challenge the more established teams.
Hugo Boumous’s transfer to Odisha is a significant development not just for the club, but also the ISL, promising to bring a blend of experience, creativity, and flair to the the Juggernaut’s midfield alongside the evergreen Ahmed Jahouh. The Indian Football fans will hope that there are more teams that can challenge the likes of Mumbai and Bagan in the coming season.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how this high-profile signing enhances Odisha’s performance and whether Boumous can replicate his past successes under the familiar guidance of Sergio Lobera.
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