I-League 2024-25: All six foreigners of Rajasthan United FC

The captain of Burundi national team and former Real Sociedad player are among the top signings.

Rajasthan United FC, the club representing the vibrant state of Rajasthan, secured a place in the I-League by winning the I-League qualifiers in 2020. Their last season, however, was a challenging one, with Rajasthan United finishing 11th, just above Neroca FC and Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU FC) in the standings.

Determined to improve, Rajasthan United have fortified their squad for the upcoming season with the addition of several skilled foreign players.

This feature delves into these new international signings, exploring their career backgrounds, previous clubs, and the wealth of experience they bring to Rajasthan United FC. These foreign players are expected to play a pivotal role in elevating the team’s performance and aim to guide the club to a competitive finish in the I-League.

Saido Berahino (Burundi/England)

Saido Berahino, the captain of the Burundi national football team, has had an extraordinary journey marked by resilience and talent. Fleeing Burundi as a child and finding asylum in Birmingham, Berahino credits football for helping him integrate into his new surroundings. His professional career began with West Bromwich Albion, where he made his mark, followed by spells with clubs like Northampton Town, Peterborough United, Brentford, Stoke City, and Sheffield Wednesday.

Berahino also played for England’s youth teams, representing the Under-19, Under-20, and Under-21 sides, before ultimately committing to the Burundi national team, where he now serves as the captain. In 2014, he was named England’s Under-21 Player of the Year, and his ambitions were clear early on, as he expressed his desire to emulate strikers like Samuel Etoo, Didier Drogba, and Jermain Defoe.

Former West Brom manager Tony Pulis once described him as a “top-class player” in need of guidance. Now with Rajasthan United, Berahino’s leadership and rich international experience will be invaluable as the club strives to make an impact in the I-League. His journey stands as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of football, and his presence on the pitch promises to uplift the team both technically and motivationally.

Jefferson Oliveira (Brazil)

The 34-year-old Brazilian center-back from Sao Paulo stands as the sole foreign defender anchoring Rajasthan United’s backline for the 2024-25 I-League season. Towering at 6 feet 4 inches, he began his professional career with Campo Grande and Serie A side Udinese, later gaining experience across Italy with loan stints at Salernitana, Venezia, and Vicenza.

His journey then took him to Portugal’s top division with Famalicao in 2018, before he ventured into Asian football with Persik Kediri in Indonesia.

Joining Rajasthan United in 2023, he has since established himself as an indispensable presence, bringing both physical prowess and tactical experience to the squad. This season, Rajasthan United will rely on his expertise to marshal their defense, aiming to secure a resolute, unbreakable backline as they seek a strong showing in the league.

Ronaldo Johnson (Ecquador)

Ronaldo Johnson, the 29-year-old left-back from Ecuador, brings his South American flair and defensive tenacity to Rajasthan United for the upcoming I-League season. Known for his speed and acceleration, Johnson has previously played for Ecuadorian clubs like Orense SC, C.D. Macará, and C.S. Emelec. His recent move to Rajasthan United on a free transfer marks a significant acquisition for the club.

Johnson’s overlapping runs on the left flank will be pivotal in driving quick counter-attacks while also fortifying the team’s defense. His pace and dynamism promise to add a new dimension to Rajasthan’s play, bolstering their aim to rise from mid-table and position themselves as serious title contenders.

His experience and skill set make him an exciting addition, and Rajasthan United will rely heavily on his contributions to maintain a balanced and effective left side throughout the season.

Ronny Rodriguez (Colombia)

Ronny Rodriguez, a towering 6-foot-4-inch defensive midfielder from Colombia, brings a wealth of international experience to Rajasthan United as they gear up for the upcoming I-League season. The 30-year-old midfielder has had a dynamic career, beginning with Chico FC’s reserve side in Colombian football, moving on to play for Gran Mamore and Ciudad Nueva, and then joining Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya in the Iraq Stars League.

His global exposure across clubs in Africa and Asia promises to be invaluable to Rajasthan United. Rodriguez’s physical presence and tactical acumen in the midfield will be essential for Rajasthan, as he will look to control the game’s tempo and provide a stable base for both defense and attack.

His ability to dominate the midfield is expected to benefit not only the Indian players around him but also the team’s overall strategic play. As Rajasthan United aims to climb the I-League ranks, Rodriguez’s experience and skill set will be crucial assets in their pursuit of success.

Alain Oyarzun (Spain)

Alain Oyarzun, the seasoned 31-year-old Spanish winger from San Sebastian, brings a wealth of experience from his years in Spanish football to Rajasthan United. Oyarzun’s journey began with Real Sociedad’s reserve team, where he made 75 appearances, showcasing his skill and consistency. In 2017, he moved to Zaragoza, continuing to build his career in Spain’s competitive leagues, followed by stints at Numancia and Córdoba.

His most recent club was Real Union, based in Irun in the Basque Country, where he played nearly 100 games over three years, contributing eight goals.

Now with Rajasthan United, Oyarzun’s dynamic playstyle and extensive experience in Spain’s football circuits will be instrumental as the club aims to position itself as a strong contender for the I-League title. His ability to influence the game from the wings and bring creativity to the attack could be exactly what Rajasthan United needs to achieve their ambitions this season.

Gerard Artigas (Spain)

Gerard Artigas Fonullet, a 29-year-old striker hailing from Barcelona, brings with him a wealth of experience across European and Asian football leagues. His journey began in the youth ranks of FC Barcelona and Sant Andreu before he transitioned to Atletico Albacete in 2014, gaining valuable experience in Spain’s competitive football landscape.

Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Artigas shone at Inter Club d’Escaldes, where his 19 goals in 40 matches were instrumental in the club’s triumph. Artigas then ventured to Asia, leaving an impression in the Vietnamese League with Nam Dinh FC.

His recent tenure with Italian side Gallipoli further bolstered his reputation as a reliable goal-scorer, demonstrating his adaptability and skill in various competitive environments.

Now joining Rajasthan United FC, Artigas will be a key figure up front, expected to elevate the team’s attack and contribute significantly to their ambitions in the upcoming I-League season. His experience and knack for finding the back of the net could be crucial in transforming Rajasthan United into a serious title contender.

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