Back in Orange: Ishan Pandita signs for FC Goa
Porvorim: FC Goa are delighted to announce the return of Ishan Pandita, with the experienced forward signing with the Club ahead of the upcoming season. A former Gaur, Pandita returns to Fatorda after a stint in the Kerala Super League with Malappuram FC, bringing with him valuable domestic and international experience. Pandita’s return strengthens FC Goa’s attacking options with a player who is already familiar with the Club’s philosophy and culture. Born in India and shaped by a football education abroad, Ishan Pandita’s journey is one of perseverance and growth. The striker spent a significant part of his formative years in Spain, training and competing in a demanding footballing environment that helped mold his technical ability, movement off the ball and understanding of the game.
His performances in Spain earned him recognition back home and paved the way for his entry into Indian football. Pandita rose to prominence after representing India at youth level and later making his mark on the senior international stage, becoming one of the few Indian forwards of his generation to score for the national team in an international competition. Pandita joined FC Goa during the early years of his ISL career and quickly made an impact as a super-sub, earning a reputation for scoring crucial goals off the bench. His late strikes played a key role in extending FC Goa’s famous 2020-21 unbeaten run and showcased his knack for being in the right place at the right time when the team needed him most.
After his time with the Gaurs, the forward went on to represent Jamshedpur FC and Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League. His most notable success came with Jamshedpur FC during the 2021-22 season, when he was part of the squad that lifted the ISL League Shield. Most recently, Pandita turned out for Malappuram FC in the Kerala Super League while the ISL was on a break, gaining valuable match minutes and maintaining his competitive sharpness.
Speaking on the signing, FC Goa Head Coach Manolo Marquez said: “Ishan Pandita, despite still being young, is at the best age to play football and already has a lot of experience in the ISL. One of his best moments also came with the national team and in his first season in India he scored many goals with FC Goa. These next 13 games will be very different, with many teams playing without foreign players in this position. Players like Ishan will have a great opportunity to show their quality. He is strong in the air, has a very good shot, and will be a valuable addition to our young team.’’
Reflecting on his return to the Club, Ishan Pandita said: “It’s great to be back. I first came onto the scene in India at this Club, a place where I really made a name for myself. Goa has always felt like home and I’m ready to recreate some of those moments again for the Club and the fans. Ever since I left, I’ve always wanted to return and play at the Fatorda in front of our fans and now I finally get the chance to do so. I can’t wait to get started.”
Pandita’s return brings back a familiar face for the FC Goa faithful, with his proven ability to deliver in key moments making this reunion a timely boost for the squad. The Club looks forward to seeing him back in orange at the Fatorda Stadium, as he aims to make decisive contributions and help FC Goa compete in the 2026 Indian Super League.
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