NewKerala.com

Key Points

FC Goa has announced the departure of their Spanish captain Odei Onaindia after two impactful seasons. His leadership and defensive prowess helped the team secure multiple clean sheets and a Kalinga Super Cup title. Onaindia formed strong partnerships with Sandesh Jhingan and Nim Dorjee, stabilizing the backline. Despite playoff setbacks, his contributions were vital in FC Goa’s recent successes.

Key Points: FC Goa Captain Odei Onaindia Departs After Two Strong Seasons

  • Onaindia joined FC Goa under Manolo Marquez in 2023-24
  • Formed a solid defensive duo with Sandesh Jhingan
  • Led team to 8 clean sheets in 2023-24
  • Captained FC Goa to Kalinga Super Cup victory
2 min read

FC Goa part way with skipper Odei Onaindia

FC Goa parts ways with Spanish defender Odei Onaindia, who led their defense to multiple clean sheets and a Kalinga Super Cup win.

"His exceptional game-reading, aerial strength, and calmness under pressure made him one of the most dependable centre-backs in the league. – ISL Website"

New Delhi, July 11

Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Goa on Thursday announced the departure of Spanish centre-back and club captain Odei Onaindia, according to the ISL website.

His exceptional game-reading, aerial strength, and calmness under pressure made him one of the most dependable centre-backs in the league.

Onaindia joined the Gaurs ahead of the 2023-24 season, following head coach Manolo Marquez from Hyderabad FC. The move reunited him with a tactical setup he was well-acquainted with, allowing the defender to settle in quickly.

He struck up a formidable partnership with Sandesh Jhingan and the duo played a crucial role in FC Goa's strong defensive performances in the last two seasons.

Even after Jhingan's injury, Onaindia remained a steady presence at the back, forging a strong understanding with Nim Dorjee during the latter half of the campaign and the start of the following season.

Onaindia was a rock at the back, playing a key role in eight of FC Goa's nine clean sheets in the 2023-24 season. The team finished third in the regular season but lost in the semi-finals to Mumbai City FC.

The following season, he continued to lead the defence with calm and control. FC Goa finished second but once again fell in the semi-finals, this time against Bengaluru FC.

Their breakthrough came in the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup, where they beat Jamshedpur FC to win the Cup. Under Onaindia's leadership, the defence let in just two goals in the entire tournament.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
As a long-time FC Goa supporter, I'm worried about this decision. Odei brought stability and experience. Replacing him won't be easy. Management better have a solid plan!
A
Aditya G
Maybe it's time to give Indian defenders more responsibility. We have talented players who can step up. Odei was great but let's develop our own stars 🇮🇳
P
Priya S
His leadership will be missed the most! That Super Cup performance was magical ✨ Hope he gets a proper farewell match. FC Goa legend for sure!
V
Vikram M
Respectfully disagree with some comments - this might be good timing. At 33, his pace was decreasing. Better to part ways when still performing well rather than wait for decline.
N
Nikhil C
Now the big question - who gets the armband? My vote goes to Brandon Fernandes. Local boy, experienced, and bleeds FC Goa colors! #GaurArmy

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50