ISL 2022-23: Odisha FC sign Spanish defensive midfielder Saul Crespo

Odisha FC has acquired the services of Spanish defensive midfielder Saul Crespo ahead of the ninth season of the Hero Indian Super League, the club announced on Thursday on their social media platforms. Despite being only 25-year-old, Crespo has a lot of experience under his belt and he is going to add value to the team’s midfield.

The Spaniard has the experience of playing in leagues like LaLiga 2, Segunda Division B & the Copa Del Rey. Crespo joined SD Ponferradina’s youth setup in 2010 and since then he has taken huge strides as a player.

Crespo joined Segunda División B side Atlético Astorga FC on loan back in 2015. The Spanish player made his senior team debut against UD Logroñés back in September 2015.

Back in September 2015, he signed a three-year contract with Ponfe. The midfielder scored his maiden goal in 2016 against CD Guijuelo, which was an equalizer for his team. He played a total of 25 matches for the club and then moved to third division side Arandina CF.

“Saul is an exciting, dynamic young defensive midfielder with a lot of experience for his age (25 years). He has a lot of game time under his belt in the LaLiga 2, Segunda División B & the Copa Del Rey. We are excited and looking forward to seeing Saul in action and wish him the best for the upcoming season,” Odisha FC said in a release.

Meanwhile, Kalinga Warriors are one of the busiest teams in the offseason and Saul is their seventh signing before the next season. The Juggernauts are adding valuable players to their team and they will look to come up with a collective in the next season.

On the other hand, Odisha FC finished at seventh position in Hero ISL 2021-22 standings with six wins and a total of 23 points in their 20 league stage matches. Thus, they failed to qualify for the semifinal stages and they will be determined to turn the tables in the next season.