Odisha FC rope in Cy Goddard; Ivan Gonzalez announces East Bengal FC departure

Odisha FC has acquired the services of forward Cy Goddard on a one-year deal, the club announced on Wednesday. The Japanese striker will return to the Indian Super League after spending a year with Mumbai City FC on loan. Goddard was part of the Islanders’ team, which won a double in the 2020-21 season.

Goddard will reunite with head coach Sergio Lobera and teammates such as Ahmed Jahouh, Mourtada Fall, and Amey Ranawade, whom he played with Mumbai City FC, at Odisha FC.

The 26-year-old made 19 appearances for the Islanders scoring once and providing three assists in the 2020-21 edition. The London-born footballer played five matches for Detroit City FC in the USL in the 2022-23 season. The forward also has the experience of playing in countries such as England, Italy, and Cyprus.

On the other hand, Spain defender Ivan Gonzalez confirmed his departure from East Bengal FC after a year with the club, the player announced through his X (previously Twitter) handle.

Gonzalez played 15 matches for Red and Gold Brigade in the previous season after making a move from FC Goa. The defender gave his gratitude to the East Bengal FC’s fans for their constant support.

“I’m making this video for all the East Bengal FC fans. I only want to say thank you for last year. Even in the bad moments, with the bad results, you were there for us, trying to support us,” he said.

“My contract with East Bengal is finished, and I have nothing to say but that I am proud to have been one of the captains of your club and to have represented this amazing club in India,” Gonzalez added.

“Thank you for all your support, for everything you did last season. I know the result was not good but you were there for us. Joy East Bengal, and thank you very much for everything you did for me and for the club,” he concluded.

East Bengal FC will face arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Durand Cup final.