ISL: Chennaiyin FC sign Daniel Chima; full-back Aakash Sangwan joins FC Goa

Chennaiyin FC has roped in the services of Nigerian footballer Daniel Chima Chukwu on a two-year deal, which will keep him with the team till 2026, the club announced through their social media handle on Sunday. He is the fourth signing for the Marina Machans before the next season of the ISL.

The 33-year-old has previously played for Indian Super League (ISL) sides East Bengal FC and Jamshedpur FC. Chukwu scored six goals in the ISL 2023-24 season and provided one assist while representing the Red Miners.

Chukwu also played an instrumental role in taking Jamshedpur FC to ISL League Shield glory in 2022. In 60 ISL matches across three seasons, he has scored 20 goals and has provided four assists.

Talking about the club’s new signing, head coach Coyle said, “I brought Daniel to Jamshedpur in the winter window of the 21/22 season and he scored 7 crucial goals in 9 games to help win us the shield. We have brought a goalscorer with a proven track record in India and we are sure he will fit into this squad seamlessly.”

Chukwu also expressed his delight after signing the two-year contract with the Marina Machans.

“It’s very exciting. Wanted to continue the journey but unfortunately, it ended with him (Coyle leaving JFC) and now the opportunity came up back on and I had to grab the opportunity to play under him,” Chima said.

On the other hand, FC Goa has signed the services of full-back Aakash Sangwan on a multi-year deal. Sangwan scored two goals while playing for Chennaiyin FC in 15 matches of the ISL 2023-24 season.

Lokesh Bherwani, Director of Football at FC Goa, expressed his excitement about the new signing. “We are delighted to welcome Aakash Sangwan to FC Goa. His dynamic play and experience in both the I-League and ISL make him a valuable addition to our team.

“His ability to contribute defensively and offensively aligns perfectly with our football philosophy, which is why we have tracked his progress for a while now. We have signed him at the right time, and we believe his presence will enhance our squad’s depth and competitiveness in the upcoming seasons, as we aim to build on what we achieved last season,” he added.

Sangwan shared his delight after joining the Gaurs, saying, “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,” he signed off.