FC Goa Welcomes Back Iker Guarrotxena for 2024-25 Season
Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa has announced the return of forward Iker Guarrotxena for the upcoming 2024-25 season. The 31-year-old Spaniard is expected to be a significant boost for the Gaurs as they aim for glory in the ISL, Durand Cup, and Kalinga Super Cup.
Guarrotxena’s Impact
Guarrotxena first joined FC Goa in the 2022-23 season, making an immediate impact both on and off the field. In 23 appearances across the ISL and the Kalinga Super Cup, he scored 13 goals, becoming the club’s top scorer for the season. His technical brilliance and leadership qualities quickly established him as a fan favourite and a crucial part of the team’s success.
Brief Stint with Mumbai City FC
After his impressive stint with FC Goa, Guarrotxena returned to Spain but soon found his way back to India, joining Mumbai City FC for a short spell last season. In just six matches for the Islanders, he registered three goals and two assists, playing a pivotal role in their strong performance in the latter half of the ISL League Stage, which concluded with them finishing as runners-up.
Excitement from Both Sides
FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez said, “We are delighted to welcome Iker (Guarrotxena) back to FC Goa. He’s a complete player with great spirit and character and is well-acquainted with Indian football.”
Iker Guarrotxena himself shared his enthusiasm: “To be back in FC Goa is not just about returning to play for a former team; it means a whole lot for me. I am back where I feel at home and reuniting with several friends. I deeply believe we can lift some trophies in this upcoming season. I am so excited to celebrate something with all Goans.”
Guarrotxena’s Career Journey
Born and raised in Bilbao, Spain, Guarrotxena brings a wealth of experience from various leagues. His senior football debut came in 2011 with CD Basconia in the Tercera Division. He has played for several clubs, including Arenas Getxo, CD Tenerife, CD Mirandes, and Cultural Leonesa. In 2018, he joined Polish top-division team Pogon Szczecin, followed by stints at the Greek Super League’s Volos NPS and Australia’s A-League side Western United. He returned to Spain in 2021 with UD Logrones, finishing as the fourth-highest goal-scorer with 14 goals.
Looking Ahead
As the Gaurs gear up for the 2024-25 season, Guarrotxena’s return is poised to be one of the most significant signings, bringing both experience and a proven track record in Indian football to the squad. FC Goa has also announced several other new arrivals, such as Aakash Sangwan, Muhammad Hammad, and Lara Sharma, while extending the terms of Odei Onaindia, Jay Gupta, Muhammed Nemil, Arshdeep Singh, Rowllin Borges, and Mohammad Yasir.
