FC Goa has finalized a deal with Nim Dorjee Tamang, the former Hyderabad FC defender, to address the absence of key player Sandesh Jhingan, who is sidelined due to a substantial injury. Sandesh Jhingan, a crucial asset in FC Goa’s current campaign led by Coach Manolo Márquez, sustained a significant injury during India’s final AFC Asian Cup 2023 match against Syria. This unforeseen setback has prompted FC Goa to quickly adapt its strategy during the final week of the January transfer window to secure a replacement.
In response to the time constraints and limited options available in the market, FC Goa has identified Nim Dorjee Tamang as the ideal candidate. Tamang recently terminated his contract with Hyderabad FC, coincidentally aligning with FC Goa’s urgent need for a defender. Tamang’s familiarity with Coach Manolo Márquez’s methods, developed during their time together at Hyderabad FC, adds to his suitability for FC Goa. According to a source close to Khel Now, “Nim Dorjee is poised to sign a short-term contract with FC Goa as a cover for the injured Sandesh Jhingan.”
This strategic move by FC Goa aims to maintain defensive strength without compromising overall team performance. Despite the setback of losing a key player, FC Goa anticipates that Tamang’s addition will contribute to their continued success in the ongoing season. Addressing the severity of Jhingan’s injury, Manolo Marquez mentioned in a pre-match press conference, “We are awaiting another opinion, but the indication is that it will be a long-term injury. We need to sign another player as we do not have many defenders in the squad. We will make a decision closer to the deadline.”