Panaji, June 11: FC Goa has officially announced the signing of seasoned Spanish defender Marc Valiente on a one-year contract, set to keep him with the Gaurs until the summer of 2023.
The 35-year-old, a product of FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, brings with him vast experience across top leagues in Spain, Israel, Belgium, and Serbia. Valiente, who has shared dressing rooms with legends like Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, and current FC Goa head coach Carlos Peña, expressed excitement about joining the club.
“Carlos was the biggest influence in my decision,” said Valiente. “We’ve played together before, and I’m excited to work with him again. I love FC Goa’s attacking football style. It demands full focus as a defender, and I’m ready for it.”
Ravi Puskur, Director of Football at FC Goa, hailed the signing, highlighting Valiente’s leadership and tactical awareness. “Marc is a perfect fit for our philosophy. His ball control, anticipation, and leadership make him a vital addition to our defensive unit,” Puskur said.
Valiente began his professional career with Barcelona B before stints at Sevilla, Real Valladolid, Maccabi Haifa, KAS Eupen, and Partizan Belgrade. He has won multiple domestic cups and featured in 438 club matches over a 16-year career, including nearly 5,000 minutes in La Liga. Notably, he was part of the Real Valladolid side that defeated Barcelona and held Real Madrid to a draw in the 2013–14 season.
A former Spain youth international, he was also part of the squad that won the UEFA U19 Euro in 2006.
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