Footballer Sandesh Jhingan to play in Croatia’s top league

New Delhi, August 18

Sandesh Jhingan will become the first India international footballer to play in the Croatian top-tier league Prva HNL after completing a move from ATK Mohun Bagan to HNK Sibenik.

Named India’s footballer of the year last month, the 28-year-old is already in Croatia and watched Sibenik’s home win against Hrvatski Dragovoljac on Sunday.

“We expect good things from him as we have followed him on different platforms where we were able to see his past performances,” said Francisco Cardona, CEO of HNK Sibenik.

“Although we know the adaptation process might take him a few weeks, we are confident that with his quality and leadership, he will become an important member of the team.”

“He made a very good impression on the staff and fans of the club when he was watching the last home game from the stands. He showed passion and energy for the team,” Cardona added.

Jhingan was excited to have the opportunity to move to HNK Sibenik.

“I think I am at a stage of my career where I really want to test myself at the highest-level possible and I think this is the perfect platform for me. As I have said, it has been my desire to play in Europe and I have taken up this challenge upon myself,” Jhingan said.

“A big thank you to the head coach Mario Rosas and the owners and management for giving me the opportunity to come here. I cannot wait to get going and look forward to giving 100 percent at every given opportunity,” he added.

Founded on December 1, 1932, HNK Sibenik returned to the premier division last season under a new management. The club finished sixth in the league, just two positions below qualification to European competitions.

The club is located in Sibenik, the Dalmatian region of Croatia. The city has breath-taking fortresses protecting it for centuries and a beautiful Cathedral of St. James, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

“We are very happy that Sandesh is with us. We know he will help us achieve the goals that we have set for ourselves during the season. His stint here will help him grow

as a player and person,” said HNK Sibenik coach Mario Rosas. — PTI