XtraTime Web Desk: Two-time ISL champions are on their way to solidify their defense with the talented Brazilian centre-back, Gérson Fraga Vieira. As player signings for the season are almost wrapped up, ATK has signed the versatile Vieira to strengthen their back, who is also an ISL favourite.
Vieira began his career with Brazilian giants Grêmio andcame up the ranks, before he was loaned out to Oeste and Red Bull Brasil. In 2014, he moved abroad and joined Uruguayan club Atenas on a loan deal. However, Gerson returned to Red Bull Brasilagain on loan in 2015.
He first came to play in India for Mumbai City FC in 2016 Indian Super League and was retained for the 2017-18 season as well. He was a key player for Mumbai City FC and he captained the side five times.
He was playing for the Japanese club Renofa Yamaguchi but will be seen in ATK colours for the 2018-19 season of ISL.
Gerson Vieira is a dashing presence on the field and had captained a star-studded Brazilian team with the likes of Neymar, Philippe Coutinho and Casemiro, three of the biggest Brazilian stars in world football today during the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
“I am delighted to be back in India and elated to be signed by ATK, the two-time champion team. I am looking forward to meet the team and want to bring the Cup back to the club.” Said Vieira
“Gérson Vieira is a very versatile and exciting player. His talent and his leadership skills will impact the team in a very positive way. I welcome him to the ATK family.”Steve Coppell, Head Coach of ATK said.
ATK’s technical advisor Sanjay sen said, “We consided a lot of soft goals last season. So we wanted to strenghten the defence this time around. In the central defence I wanted to have two strong forign central defenders and that is the reason we signed John Jonson and Gérson Fraga Vieira. We have seen Gérson in last couple of seasons in the ISL and he is a committed defender. I believe his partnership with John will be a strong one. “ He added, “We have a very strong bunch of defensive players this time as we have already signed Aiborlang Khonjee and with his inclusion we will have a fine balance with Arnab Mondal’s experience. We also have signed Ankit Mukherjee, Sena Ralte, Prabir das and Ricky.”
FC Pune City also announces the signing of Keenan Almeida for the forthcoming season.