Ribhav Sardesai (L) and Mark Carvalho
Photo Credits: The Goan
PANAJI
FC Bengaluru United (FCBU) has roped in former Salgaocar captain Ribhav Sardesai and last season's Goa Pro League (GPL) top-scorer Mark Carvalho on one-year deals that could see the duo compete in the upcoming I-League should the club complete its registration for the second tier of Indian football.
Both players were part of Salgaocar Football Club's (SFC) senior team which was recently discontinued. However, Ribhav already had plans to move prior to Salgaocar's shocking decision as his contract ran down.
"Leaving Salgaocar was a difficult choice because it was my boyhood club but if I wanted to grow in football, I had to move from there (SFC)," revealed Ribhav. "Although my contract was over, Salgaocar discontinuing their team is really disheartening," he continued, adding that the club will always have a big place in his heart and that he would maybe consider coaching them in the future too.
With most Goan clubs playing State football barring FC Goa, Churchill Brothers and Dempo SC, Goan players have seen their growth stifle. The former Salgaocar captain hailed FCBU for their standards and facilities.
"Bengaluru United is one of the best teams in the Bangalore Super Division. The club is very professional and provides very good facilities which is better when compared to many I-League clubs," Ribhav said.
"I felt this would be the best for me. It's a very competitive environment and getting to play in the Bangalore Super Division and Second Division I-League would be a step forward," the 23-year-old added. The midfielder aims to win the Super Division and qualify for the I-League.
Bengaluru's playing style complements Ribhav's attributes making him an important addition and one that can elevate the team's performance in the middle of the park. "When I have the ball I can contribute and add a little extra quality in the attacking third and middle third with my passes," said the former India U-20 midfielder who can take up an attacking role too.
Meanwhile, Bengaluru have bolstered their forward line with the signing of Mark Carvalho. "I feel good. It's a big opportunity for me to showcase my talent in a more competitive league," said the striker.
Mark finished as the top-scorer in the Goa Professional League last season with 10 goals in 10 appearances whilst also racking up 3 assists. "It felt good finishing as the top goalscorer in the GPL which had so many good strikers but I prioritise team success and it's a shame that we couldn’t win the league after coming so close for the past two years," Mark recalled.
The 22-year-old hopes to replicate his goal-scoring form at his new club but he is also wary of his new surroundings. "Being in a different place and a different club, I have to settle in, since it's my first time away from home," said Mark. "It's tough but you have to adjust quickly in a new environment. However, we are four Goan boys so that helps and the coaches and management have been very supportive," he added.
Bengaluru have also signed Sarineo Fernandes and Jaison Vaz from Dempo SC on similar terms with the latter having already played for FCBU in the past.
