ISL: Hugo Boumous announces departure, FC Goa maintains he is still contracted

Indian Super League (ISL) shield winners FC Goa have parted ways with their talismanic midfielder Hugo Boumous ahead of the upcoming season, the player announced on Instagram on Monday.

In an emotional Instagram post, Boumous wrote, "I would like to announce that my journey with FC Goa is over. It has been a hard decision to made. I’m grateful to have represented the colours and the state of Goa across India. Thanks for all the love I received from the fans."

The young French midfielder was one of the star performers for Goa last season. In fact, it was because of him that the club finished on top of the table and booked a place in the prestigious AFC Champions League (ACL) despite coach Sergio Lobera’s sudden departure.

At the end of the season, although Goa couldn’t claim the title, Boumous took home the Golden Ball award, having been directly involved in 21 goals (10 goals, 11 assists) in just 15 games.

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While the player remained central to the team’s plans for next season, Boumous himself was unsure of his future, as was reported by the Times of India.

“I have to see what is the plan of the club. FC Goa should be ambitious for next season. As you know, Jahouh, Fall, Jackichand, Mandar have all left and they were important players. I have not seen any new player join the club, apart from Redeem (Tlang),” he was quoted saying by the daily.

It’s no secret that several other clubs are interested in signing him and Mumbai City FC could be a likely suitor. However, we have to wait and watch to see where he ends up.

Boumous’ contract with Goa was supposed to run till the summer of 2022. However, now it seems that the club will have to look for a replacement. They have already roped in Spanish forward Igor Angulo to start the rebuilding process and more signings are expected to be completed in the coming days.

Update: FC Goa state 'Boumous remains contracted'

An hour after Boumous announced on his Instagram page that he has left FC Goa, the club, from its official social media handles, stated that he still remains a contracted player.

The official statement said: "The club would like to state that Hugo Boumous continues to remain a contracted player with FC Goa. There is no agreement that has been reached with any other club on the same."