Football

Rafael Crivellaro returns to Chennaiyin FC, East Bengal sign foreign defensive duo of Jordan Elsey and Jose Pardo

Indian Super League outfit Chennaiyin FC have roped in Brazilian midfielder Rafael Crivellaro ahead of the 2023-24 season. Crivellaro becomes their third foreign signing of the transfer window.

It is like homecoming for Crivellaro who plied his trade for Jamshedpur FC in the latter half of the season where he scored two goals and registered four assists in 13 matches across competitions. However, he had a good outing in the Super Cup for the Men of Steel, where he netted two goals and provided as many assists in three games.

The 34-year-old will be looking to play a major role in Owen Coyle’s team. He can be the main man in midfield pulling the strings for other foreign signings like Connor Shields and Jordan Murray.

Interestingly, Crivellaro was the captain of the Marina Machans in the 2020-21 season and is a fan favourite. He was a massive part of the Chennaiyin FC team that finished runners-up in the 2019-20 season under Owen Coyle. The Brazilian registered seven goals and provided eight assists in a sensational season. Fans will be hoping nothing less than that as Coyle and Crivellaro both return to Chennaiyin FC.

“I’m very proud to put on the blue jersey once again and also excited to be reunited with Owen Coyle. I’m very aware of the challenge that’s ahead of me and I will give my everything to give the fans what they deserve,” Crivellaro said after returning to the club.

In 34 matches, he has scored eight times while providing 11 assists in his four-year stay in the ISL.

On the other hand, East Bengal FC have snapped up two of their foreign defenders to strengthen their backline. Australian defender Jordan Elsey and Spanish centre-back Jose Antonio Pardo Lucas have joined the Red and Golds.

Born in Adelaide, Elsey has plied his trade for clubs like Adelaide United, Newcastle Jets and Perth Glory. He won the A-League title with Adelaide United back in the 2015-16 season. He also won two Australian Cups in 2018 and 2019 during his stay at Adelaide United before moving to Newcastle Jets.

After putting pen to paper, the tough tackler said, “It’s a great honour for me to sign for this historic club. I am looking forward to meeting my teammates and having a successful season. I can’t wait to play in front of our fans about whom I’ve heard so much. Joy East Bengal!”

Meanwhile, Pardo who hails from Spain has plied his trade for many Spanish lower-division clubs. He has featured in over 70 La Liga 2 matches. He was pivotal in helping his team Eldense get back promotion to La Liga 2 after 61 years. The 35-year-old centre-back has a lot of experience and will look to lead the backline for the Red and Golds.

Head coach Carles Cuadrat was very happy with the signings as he believes that the defenders will help them gain success in the upcoming season. “In Elsey and Pardo, we have two experienced central defenders who will be a great asset to help us to be consistent in our defence. A good defence is essential to a team’s success, and with both in our fold, we feel that our defensive line will be a solid one,” he stated.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India vs England 3rd ODI: Struggling England must find right balance against dominant Indians

India delivered a phenomenal performance in the second ODI, led brilliantly by the skipper. It's … Read More

February 11, 2025

Khalid Jamil says performance was not up to the mark after loss against Bengaluru FC

Jamshedpur FC head coach Khalid Jamil was not impressed with his team’s performance after suffering… Read More

February 11, 2025

Novak Djokovic makes honest admission about why he is still playing

Novak Djokovic has achieved almost everything in the record books. He has 24 Grand Slams… Read More

February 11, 2025

Liverpool’s Arne Slot calls shock FA Cup exit ‘unacceptable’

Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot has called the shock FA Cup exit as unacceptable. The Reds… Read More

February 11, 2025

Gerard Zaragoza expresses delight after much-needed win against Jamshedpur FC

Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza was delighted after a comprehensive 3-0 win against Jamshedpur… Read More

February 11, 2025

Luka Doncic scores 14 in 24 minutes in debut win with Lakers

After the shock trade, Luka Doncic finally made his debut for the Los Angeles Lakers.… Read More

February 11, 2025