Bartholomew Ogbeche set to extend contract at Hyderabad FC

For the first time in his career in India, the Nigerian will continue at the same club for a second season.

Bartholomew Ogbeche is set to pen a one-year extension at Hyderabad FC, Khel Now can confirm. The 37-year-old won the ISL Golden Boot last season after scoring 18 goals in 20 matches.

A source close to the development informed Khel Now, “Bartholomew Ogbeche will extend his contract with the Nizams. He’ll be staying at Hyderabad FC for another season.”

As per sources, Ogbeche had offers from numerous ISL clubs. However, he has decided to extend his stay in the city of Nizams after a fruitful discussion with coach Manolo Marquez, who himself earlier signed an extension. Ogbeche could also have a shot at playing in Asia in 2023 via a playoff match or if HFC retain the ISL trophy next season.

About the player

Bartholomew Ogbeche started his career way back in 2001. In his career, he has played for clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Real Valladolid, FC Metz, Cadiz CF and Middlesbrough among others. The Nigerian came to India in 2018 and donned the NorthEast United colours. The next season, he joined Kerala Blasters. Till date, he remains the highest scorer for Kerala Blasters (15 goals in 16 matches).

In 2020, he plied his trade for Mumbai City FC and scored seven goals in 23 games. The following season was the golden year for Ogbeche. He played brilliant football for Hyderabad FC and helped them bag the Indian Super League trophy for the first time since the club’s inception. Ogbeche scored 18 goals in 20 appearances throughout the ISL season. He was the Golden Boot winner as well!

Hyderabad FC’s preparation for ISL 2022/23

The Nizams may see certain changes in their squad. As per rumours, Juanan may not continue at the club. However, no official confirmation has been received on this. Full-back Asish Rai is said to have signed a five-year deal with ATK Mohun Bagan. Thus, Hyderabad FC will have to sign a right-back, who will fulfil the needs of the starting line-up.

The club had recently signed Soyal Joshy after the conclusion of the Santosh Trophy. Joshy played brilliant football in the Santosh Trophy for Kerala and went on to lift the title. The extension of Bartholomew Ogbeche will surely act as a boost for both the management and the squad. Manolo Marquez did a great job last season and will be hopeful of building on that success.