Odisha FC has completed the signing of Raynier Fernandes on a loan deal from Mumbai City, IFTWC can confirm.
Raynier came through the ranks of Air India before signing for Mohun Bagan in 2017. Prior to signing for Mumbai City FC ahead of the 2018–19 season, he featured in 27 games for the Mariners across the I-League and AFC Cup, gradually developing into an exciting talent. Since then, the local lad has played in 76 games for the Islanders, helping them win their first silverware, in 2020. Raynier started in fifteen games under Sergio Lobera during their title-winning season, playing mostly on the right flank.
Raynier Fernandes made his Indian National Team debut in 2019 against Curacao and has since earned five caps for the team. His last game was against UAE in 2021.
It is hardly surprising that the 26-year-old is heading on loan because he only started six games for Mumbai last season. Raynier is a valuable asset to any team because of his versatility. He can play on the wings or the midfield depending on the need, which can be very useful to Odisha.
The Juggernauts earlier had confirmed the return of Josep Gambau to lead them in the upcoming season alongside Carlos Delgado, also returning to play under his former coach. They have been active in the domestic market, completing the signings of Michael Soosairaj and Narender Gehlot for the new season. Along with the arrivals, there have also been some significant exits, with goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh and Gaurav Bora both switching teams.
Last season, the Odisha team showed promise, but it fell short of expectations. The management will hope they can challenge for the championship this year because they have so far made proper decisions in the transfer market to strengthen the team.
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