Margao (Goa), June 9 (IANS): FC Goa announced the signing of versatile left-back Aakash Sangwan on a multi-year deal for the upcoming 2024–25 season.

The 28-year-old hailing from Haryana, Sangwan’s football journey began in the Minerva Punjab Academy, where his talent quickly shone through. After breaking into their first team in 2015-16, he made an immediate impact by helping Minerva Punjab secure promotion to the I-League.

His career trajectory then continued upward as he scored his first professional goal in the 2017-18 season, a crucial strike that propelled Minerva Punjab to the top of the league standings and ultimately to their maiden I-League title.

Sangwan’s time with Minerva also included notable performances in the AFC Cup, where he registered a memorable assist against Chennaiyin FC. Subsequent stints with Churchill Brothers and Roundglass Punjab further honed his skills, accumulating 59 I-League appearances, one goal, and three assists before making his Indian Super League debut with Chennaiyin FC in 2022.

“I am excited to start this new chapter with FC Goa. The club’s ambitions and style of play resonate with me, and I am eager to contribute to the team’s success.

“I’ve always admired the footballing culture and the history of the sport in this state, and can’t wait to play in front of FC Goa’s passionate fan base at the Fatorda Stadium. I look forward to giving my best and achieving great things together with the team,” said Aakash Sangwan on his move to the Gaurs.

Over two seasons with the Marina Machans, the defender featured in 48 matches across all competitions, scoring twice and assisting on 10 occasions. His remarkable ‘Olimpico’ goal against NorthEast United last season was instrumental in Chennaiyin FC’s return to the ISL Cup playoffs after a four-year hiatus.