ISL 2020-21: Brazilian contingent set to report in UK before flying to Goa

The foreign stars are being assisted in their transit to India ahead of the new campaign.

Nine Brazilian professionals across five Indian Super League (ISL) clubs are set to reach the United Kingdom (UK) before landing in Goa, Khel Now understands.

India shares an air-bubble with the UK. The participants have attained a work permit for their forthcoming stint in the ISL. They will undergo quarantine in the UK. The concerned individuals are: Raphael Augusto, Cleiton Silva (Bengaluru FC); Rafael Crivellaro, Eli Sabia (Chennaiyin FC), Joao Victor (Hyderabad FC), Alex Monteiro de Lima (Jamshedpur FC), Diego Mauricio, Marcelinho, Rogerio Ramos (goalkeeping coach) (Odisha FC).

In addition to that, India has a similar agreement in place with New Zealand too. Hence, Roy Krishna from ATK Mohun Bagan is currently in the island country. Two days ago, the forward had mentioned on Instagram, “My long journey back to India begins almost a month before pre-season with the team. First stop NZ and two weeks of quarantine before another long journey to Goa.”

Hyderabad FC’s Indian contingent has reached their hotel in Panjim. They will follow the required procedures before engaging in pre-season preparations. FC Goa’s domestic players have begun assembling too. On the other hand, ATK Mohun Bagan players have started flying into the state in western India. Indian players will undergo four COVID-19 tests within nine days upon arrival. Overseas footballers will be tested on five occasions in 12 days. They will be in self-isolation for the time being. Pre-season will begin for teams from October onward. Following that, separate forums will be conducted for captains and coaches of the clubs.

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The schedule for the season is yet to be announced. Apparently, the first match is set to be played between 20-23 November. The Times of India had reported that six players have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of entering the bio-secure bubble in Goa. These players are from FC Goa, Hyderabad FC and ATK Mohun Bagan. However, two of them have recovered already. The others are isolating at their respective homes.