ISL: Odisha FC rope in league's all-time third highest scorer Marcelinho

Indian Super League (ISL) outfit Odisha FC announced the signing of former Hyderabad FC attacker Marcelinho Leite Pereira, popularly known as Marcelinho, on Wednesday.

The Brazilian star has been one of the most prolific players in the ISL over the years, with 17 assists and 31 goals to his name in 63 matches. He is third on the list of all-time goal scorers in the league. Interestingly, this is some sort of a homecoming for Marcelinho who made his debut in the ISL for Delhi Dynamos FC, the club which was dissolved to form Odisha FC.

https://twitter.com/OdishaFC/status/1301051525914009600

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Marcelinho picked up the ropes with the reserve side of La Liga club Atletico Madrid. He then went on to play for Greek clubs Kalamata, Xanthi FC and Atromitos, Baniyas Club in the UAE, Catania in Italy, and Brazilian side Anapolis, before coming to India. The 33-year-old won the Golden Boot award in his debut season in the ISL (10 goals in 15 matches). He then moved to Pune City FC, and consequently, to Hyderabad FC last season.

However, when the season ended and Hyderabad finished last, the team management decided to rebuild from scratch not to renew Marcelinho's contract. He was rumoured to be in talks with Kerala Blasters but Odisha managed to secure him ahead of the new season.

After the signing, OFC President Mr. Rohan Sharma said, "Life can be strange and beautiful. After a long time, It's great to have Marcelinho back with me. Last time we were together, he set the league ablaze with his skills and goals. Now he has become the third highest goalscorer in the ISL and I am sure he will bang some more in this season. He still has a lot to offer with his vision and scoring, and we both want to bring the trophy to Odisha this season."

Welcoming Marcelinho to the Club, Head Coach Mr. Stuart Baxter stated, "With good experience of Indian football and a record that is admired by many, Marcelinho represents a good signing on all fronts."

A delighted Marcelinho expressed, "I am very motivated for the challenge. I really want to do well with my new team and new coach. I hope that we have an amazing season ahead and I can't wait for this."