Odisha FC have unveiled the signing of Brazilian veteran Jonathas Cristian de Jesus on Thursday. The centre-forward joins Odisha FC ahead of the ISL season scheduled for kick-off in Goa.
The 32-year-old has played in a number of top-level football leagues in as many countries including Brazil, Netherlands, Spain, Italy and Germany.
He began his career with Brazilian club Cruzeiro in 2006 after coming through their youth ranks. The Brazilian had also sported the colours of Ipatinga and Villa Nova on loan before signing for Dutch club AZ in 2009.
Odisha FC expect great things from de Jesus
The striker has experienced life in the Serie A, La Liga and Bundesliga. He has represented clubs like Pescara, Torino, Elche, Real Sociedad and Hannover 96 among others. He has over 100 career goals to his name.
Before joining the Bhubaneswar-based side, he was with UAE Pro League club Sharjah FC and for Hatta Club(loan) in 2021. During the Sendai Cup 2008, Jonathas donned the Brazil U-19 colours.
On joining Odisha FC camp, Jonathas de Jesus: “I am very excited for this new challenge in my career. The project that Odisha FC showed me had a big impact on my decision. I am very motivated and I am looking forward to playing in the ISL and achieve greater things with Odisha FC. Ama Team Ama Game!”
Odisha Head Coach Kiko Ramirez stated, “Jonathas has to be our goal scorer. He will give us work inside the pitch and he will make it very difficult for opposing defenders.“ He added that de Jesus joins the club with an immense hunger and motivation to make an impact on the ISL.
Continuing, he says that the Brazilian has shown a lot of quality. He is good in the air and able to craft chances on his own.
Club President Mr Raj Athwal talks about the new foreign signing, “We are thrilled to have signed a player of Jonathas’ quality and experience. His record speaks for itself….“.
Mr Athwal states that the signing of Jonathas de Jesus is huge. It will impact not only Odisha FC but even Indian football in general.
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