Hyderabad FC rope in defender Soyal Joshy

The right-back played an instrumental role in Kerala's Santosh Trophy triumph.

Adding further strength to their backline, Indian Super League Champions Hyderabad FC have completed the signing of right-back Soyal Joshy on a long-term deal, the club announced on Saturday. The 2022 Santosh Trophy winner has put pen to paper on a three-year deal till the end of the 2024-25 season.

“It is definitely a very exciting moment for my professional development to be joining the ISL champions Hyderabad FC,” said Soyal, after signing his contract.

“I would like to thank Hyderabad FC coaches and management for their trust in me and I am looking forward to joining my new teammates in the preseason,” he added.

Born and brought up in Kerala, Soyal started out with Prodigy Sportz and Don Bosco Football Academy as early as an 11-year-old. He has risen through the ranks over the years, playing an array of tournaments across all age groups

A right-back by trait, Soyal joined Golden Threads FC and played a crucial role in pushing the side to the 2021-22 Kerala Premier League trophy, bagging two goals from right-back.

He also won the 2021-22 Santosh Trophy with the Kerala state team where he was a regular in the first team gathering some valuable experience at a young age.

Soyal will get his first taste of the Indian Super League, with the Champions, as he is all set to train with the first team under Manolo Marquez ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.

The 20-year-old becomes the third domestic addition for Hyderabad FC, following the signings of Alex Saji and Manoj Mohammad.

Hyderabad FC's preparations for ISL 2022/23

The Nizams have extended the stay of Bartholomew Ogbeche, Joel Chianese, Sahil Tavora and Laxmikant Kattimani. Spaniard Odei Onaindia has also returned to the club for the upcoming season. However, the club has suffered a loss in the form of Asish Rai's departure, who has joined ATK Mohun Bagan on a long-term deal. Meanwhile, rumours have linked midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti with East Bengal. As of now, Manolo Marquez has been successful in retaining the core of his ISL Trophy winning squad. Marquez himself is adept in nurturing young talents. Thus, it can be said that Soyal Joshy is under the perfect mentorship, which he needs to excel in the sport.