Luis Machado leaves NorthEast United, joins Polish side Radomiak

The 28-year-old registered seven goals in two assists for the Highlanders in ISL 2020-21.

Indian Super League (ISL) outfit NorthEast United on Thursday confirmed the departure of winger Luis Machado. The Portuguese player has signed for Radomiak, a Polish top division club.

"Thank you for the memories and we wish you the very best for your future endeavours," NorthEast United wrote on Twitter moments after Machado announced his exit. Luis Machado scored seven goals and notched two assists for NorthEast United in the 2020-21 season of the ISL. The 28-year-old linked up well with teammate Federico Gallego and played a pivotal role in their second playoffs appearance in three years.

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He started his career with the youth teams of USC Paredes and SC Freamunde in Portugal, before getting promoted to the latter's senior team in 2011. Three years later, he made his debut in Liga NOS, Portugal's top league with CD Tondela. Moves to Feirense and Moreirense followed, before the winger shifted base to India with the Highlanders last summer.

What Luis Machado said

"It’s time to say goodbye to NorthEast United. Very happy with the journey, which culminated with the team going to the semi-finals of the ISL champion play-off and at the individual level it couldn't have been better: seven goals, two assists, one 'Hero of the Match,' one 'Winning Pass of the Match,' NEUFC's top scorer at the time. I would like to thank all the fans who were amazing and tireless throughout the season, your support was essential and for that to all of you, my sincere thanks!" Luis Machado wrote on Instagram.

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He further added, "Tell all my teammates they’re always crucial during the season! Thanks for all the moments we passed through, you became like a family for me. In the end, thanks to NEUFC, to technical staff, medical staff and all the involved for open the doors for me and gave me this amazing opportunity in my career!"

Machado's new club Radomiak will play in the Ekstraklasa - the top division of the Polish football league system - next season. They won the second division last season, following which they got promoted this summer.

NorthEast United, meanwhile, are working on building their squad for the 2021-22 season. They exceeded expectations by finishing third in the league stage last season and would want to create a similar impact in their upcoming campaign as well.

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