FC Goa rope in Kerala Blasters forward Seiminlen Doungel

The 25-year-old failed to replicate his NorthEast United form with the southerners last season.

In the most recent development, Kerala Blasters forward Seimilen Doungel  has joined FC Goa in a two-year deal. NorthEast United FC also had their eyes on him but the Gaurs managed to rope in their intended target before the Highlanders. 

The Blasters had a very disappointing season but Doungel was impressive on patches, scoring twice and assisting four times in the process. The 25-year old is a utility player who can slot in any position going forward. He also played a part in every game for Kerala Blasters in their Indian Super League campaign.

Doungel has always been appreciated for his tireless work ethic on the field but also gets plenty of stick because of his inability to convert chances. He can be a vital addition to an already star-studded FC Goa side. The Gaurs have shown massive improvements this season and despite falling short in the ISL final to Bengaluru, Sergio Lobera's men came back and won the Super Cup to draw curtains to an exciting season.

The 25-year old featured for the Indian Arrows at the start of his career and then plied his trade for clubs like East Bengal, Shillong Lajong, Bengaluru FC, Delhi Dynamos and NorthEast United before joining the Blasters in 2018.

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It will be interesting to see Doungel's growth as a player under Sergio Lobera, as the Spaniard has a knack of playing with youngsters. The Manipuri footballer will offer versatility in attack for the Spaniard and despite being in a disappointing Kerala Blasters side he was one of the shining beacons in attack and looked like the player creating something out of nothing with his tireless work ethic.

Lobera's main aim next season will be winning the Indian Super League title and for that, they have already started building a strong squad. However, it won't be easy for Doungel, as the Gaurs already have a very capable front three, scoring the maximum number of goals last season.