FC Goa Signs Promising Defender Sanatomba Singh

FC Goa has signed young full-back Sanatomba Singh Yanglem to a multi-year contract. The 18-year-old, a graduate of RFYC academy, is excited to join the team, known for nurturing talent. His addition strengthens FC Goa's defense for the upcoming season.

FC Goa, on Tuesday, officially announced that promising young full-back Sanatomba Singh Yanglem has joined their roster. A graduate of the esteemed Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC) academy, Sanatomba has committed to a multi-year contract with the Gaurs, ensuring his presence in the team beyond the 2024-25 season.

The 18-year-old made a name for himself at RFYC and expressed his enthusiasm about the move. 'I am delighted to sign with FC Goa. Honestly, I did not expect such an opportunity - joining the First Team of one of the great clubs in India with such a supportive environment. As a young player, I understand the challenges ahead in matching the levels of my more experienced teammates. However, this is the essence of football, and I am committed to my development, seeking guidance from both coaches and players,' said Sanatomba in an official release from FC Goa.

Sanatomba further expressed his belief that FC Goa is the ideal place for his growth. 'This team is renowned for nurturing young talent and helping them achieve their potential. I have two seniors, Aakash Sangwan and Jay Gupta, to look up to and learn from. Additionally, I am eager to work with the coaching staff, especially Coach Manolo, who has a reputation for significantly impacting young players. I aspire to be one of those players,' he added.

Sanatomba has an impressive record, being part of the RFYC team that won the Sub-Junior I-League in 2018-19 and finished as runners-up in the MFA Super Division in 2022-23. Across his tenure with RFYC, he played 42 matches, clocked 2824 minutes, registered four assists, and contributed to 18 clean sheets.

FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez praised Sanatomba for his technical prowess and defensive skills. 'Sanatomba is a left-back with excellent qualities. He is technically sound, a solid defender, and shows remarkable bravery and aggression on the field, making it difficult for opponents. Despite his young age, he has a promising future ahead,' said Marquez.

'FC Goa provides a great platform for young footballers to hone their craft at the highest level. We are proud of Sanatomba Singh for making this step in his young career. We look forward to seeing him perform and shine on the biggest stage,' commented an RFYC spokesperson. Sanatomba's addition enhances FC Goa's defensive lineup as they prepare for the new season. He is the Club's seventh new signing, joining goalkeeper Lara Sharma, defenders Aakash Sangwan and Muhammad Hammad, midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic, and forward Alan Saji.

(With inputs from agencies.)