ISL: FC Goa sign goalkeeper Lara Sharma ahead of 2024-25 season
FC Goa have roped in 24-year-old goalkeeper Lara Sharma ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League season. Sharma, who was previously a part of Bengaluru FC, and also enjoyed a short loan stint at Kerala Blasters last season, has penned a multi-year deal with the Gaurs.
Lara Sharma is a promising goalkeeper but hasn't been a regular at any of the clubs he has played at (major competition). During his stay at Bengaluru FC, he featured heavily in the 2021 Durand Cup and also earned praise from the fans.
However, in the Indian Super League, Sharma has registered seven appearances overall. In the process, he has also kept two clean sheets, against Chennaiyin FC (3-0) and East Bengal (1-0). Both these clean sheets came in the 2021-22 ISL season.
After signing for FC Goa, Lara Sharma said in a statement:
“I am thrilled to be part of FC Goa. The club has a fantastic reputation for its style of play and passionate fan base and I can’t wait to start this new chapter of my career with the team."
“Everyone I talked to praised the professional football culture at the Club, so I had no hesitation in signing. I’m also eager to work with Coach Manolo (Marquez), who has been instrumental in developing many young players."
He continued:
“During every break, I aim to win the upcoming season and return home with pride. But this time, it feels even more significant. We have a strong squad that can show where FC Goa belongs and what we deserve to achieve. As long as I’m part of FC Goa, this mindset will remain unchanged."
Speaking on the acquisition of Sharma, the Gaurs' Spanish maestro Manolo Marquez commented:
“I am very happy to welcome Lara to FC Goa. He is a promising young goalkeeper with many excellent qualities, and is poised to become one of India’s top goalkeepers in the coming years. He performs well in goal, stays composed when playing with his feet outside the box, and shows courage in all his actions – all of them essential traits for our style of play."
FC Goa's preparations for the upcoming season
FC Goa recently parted ways with goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh and Sharma's acquisition puts and end to their search for a shot-stoppper.
After the conclusion of the 2023-24 season, FC Goa have till now announced only two signings. The first came a few days back in the form of left-back Aakash Sangwan and they have now roped in Lara Sharma.
Moreover, the Gaurs have extended the stay of two young footballers, Jay Gupta, who is a regular at FC Goa and a debutant at the Indian national team, and Muhammed Nemil. The club has also secured the future of Odei Onaindia, who will continue at FC Goa after a successful outing last season.