ISL: Chennaiyin FC sign Sweden Fernandes on multi-year deal

The midfielder is the Marina Machans' first signing of the season.

Chennaiyin FC have roped in exciting young midfielder Sweden Fernandes as the club’s first signing for the 2023-24 season.

The 23-year-old from Goa joins the Marina Machans on a multi-year deal after promising performances at Neroca FC last season on loan from Hyderabad FC. He registered three goals and one assist in 15 matches for the I-League outfit.

Fernandes’ signing underlines Chennaiyin FC’s commitment towards nurturing and developing young Indian talent.

Fernandes' thoughts on the move

The talented left-footed youngster is a popular name in the Goan football circuit having turned up for the youth teams of FC Goa, Dempo SC and Sporting Club de Goa. Fernandes also featured in three Durand Cup matches for Hyderabad FC last year.

“I’m very happy to be here and I’m thankful to the club for giving me this opportunity to prove myself. I’m ready to give my all and I can’t wait to play in front of the Chennaiyin FC faithful,” Fernandes expressed his excitement on joining Chennaiyin FC.

Recovering from a disappointing season

The 2022-23 Indian Super League season was a disappointing one for the Chennai based club, as they finished a lowly eighth with 27 points to show all season. Their defence proved to be very leaky, and despite the additions of breakthrough star Abdenasser El Khayati, the team could not make the playoffs.

The Hero Super Cup also ended in a disappointing fashion, as the club crashed out in the group stages. Chennaiyin FC released all six foreigners from their roster, and have also lost Anirudh Thapa to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and Edwin Vanspaul to East Bengal.

The club continues to scout extensively for talent in the I-League, and the signing of Sweden Fernandes reflects that approach. They are set to welcome back head coach Owen Coyle into the set-up, after mutually parting ways with Thomas Brdaric.