James Donachie leaves FC Goa, signs for A-League club Sydney FC

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The center-back had a fruitful season with the Gaurs in the 2020-21 season.

Former FC Goa defender James Donachie has signed for A-League outfit Sydney FC. On Friday morning, the club announced the arrival of the centre-back on a one-year contract from Newcastle Jets FC. FC Goa brought Donachie on loan from Newcastle Jets FC last summer and he left after completing the 2020-21 season with the Indian Super League (ISL) outfit. 

"I’m delighted to be signing for Sydney FC and cannot wait to get underway for the new season. It’s an extremely exciting time for this competition and to be joining a club with a winning culture and tradition is great for me," he said after joining the club.

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Donachie is an experienced operator in the A-League and suggests he will fit in with his new club easily. "I know quite of a few of the boys already, so I’m sure I’ll have no problems settling in and I look forward to adding to this club’s incredible list of success," he added.

His numbers so far

James Donachie is a three-time A-League champion, winning the title with Brisbane Roar twice (2011-12, 2013-14) and Melbourne Victory once (2017-18). With FC Goa, he featured in the ISL league stage, playoffs and the AFC Champions League (ACL) too.

He has made 22 appearances in the AFC Champions League in his career and 122 appearances in the A-League. He has also played in the K-League for Jeonnam Dragons. 

Value for FC Goa

The center-back clocked in 1506 minutes across 18 matches in the ISL. He also played five times in the ACL as the Gaurs became the first Indian club ever to play in the group stages of the competition. 

He recorded 32 tackles, 13 interceptions, 66 clearances and 14 blocks in the league. The 28-year-old's partnership with Ivan Gonzalez was solid and they ensured two clean-sheets in the first two games of the ACL.

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Sydney FC’s ambitions

The A-League outfit have brought James Donachie on the backdrop of a strong season for the Gaurs. He will link up with Adam Le Fondre at the club, who also played in the ISL last season with Mumbai City FC. 

Sydney FC lost the title last term to Melbourne City FC after losing the final by a 3-1 scoreline. The outfit will now look to regain the trophy and have made their intentions clear by signing a player like Donachie.

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