FC Goa have strengthened their attacking department by signing Serbian midfielder Dejan Drazic from Cypriot club Ethnikos Achna FC. The 28-year-old has agreed to a two-year contract, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2025-26 season.
Born in Sombor, Serbia, Drazic has played for several European clubs throughout his career and brings valuable experience to the Gaurs. He is FC Goa’s seventh signing for the 2024-25 season and is set to replace the influential Noah Sadaoui, who recently joined Kerala Blasters FC.
In an interview with FC Goa media following his contract signing, Drazic mentioned that his ambitions aligned with those of the club, which motivated his move to India.
“I’m happy to join the Gaurs, and I’m ready for a new challenge after so many years in Europe. I heard the best things about the Indian Super League, from my friends from Serbia who played here – some of them are still here,” he said (via FC Goa media).
“And all of them said the nicest things about FC Goa – what they tell me is that this is perhaps the best and the most organised club in the country. Later, while speaking with the management who were very direct and persistent with me, I became pleased to know that I am one of the choices for this team,” Drazic continued.
He added:
“I hope to justify this trust in me. The bigger goal, of course, is to be one of the contenders to win the league and the cup competitions. I am also eager to show myself well, and to bring the club and the team what they expect from me.”
Dejan Drazic has played in La Liga for Celta Vigo
Drazic began his career with Serbian football giants Partizan Belgrade but moved to OFK Beograd in the Serbian top flight in 2013. He impressed in his first season at the club, scoring four goals in 23 appearances, and continued to perform well in his second season, prompting a move to La Liga club Celta Vigo in 2015.
However, the midfielder struggled to find playing time with the Spanish outfit, leading to a transfer to Segunda Division club Real Valladolid the following season. After a year with Celta Vigo’s B team, where he scored eight goals in 40 appearances, Drazic left Spain for Slovakian club Slovan Bratislava, where he found success.
In his first season at Slovan Bratislava, the Serbian notched seven goals and 11 assists across all competitions and was part of the team that won the league title. During his four seasons with the club, Drazic made 94 appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing 18 assists, while also playing in the Europa League.
After stints in Poland, Hungary, and Turkey, Dražić moved to Cyprus with Ethnikos Achna last season, where he scored six goals and provided 14 assists across all competitions.
What will Dejan Drazic bring to FC Goa?
Drazic’s versatility across the frontline is particularly noteworthy. While he is predominantly used on the left flank, he is also highly effective when played in the No. 10 position or as a right winger. Last season, he was utilized both as a left winger and an attacking midfielder, but he excelled when starting from the touchline, cutting inside, and delivering crosses with his right foot.
FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez described Drazic’s versatility as his biggest strength and believes it will add significant value to the team.
“He has played in different countries, which will help him adapt to India and the nature of football played in the country. Versatility is another one of Dejan’s qualities – he can play as a winger or as an attacking midfielder. All of this makes him a fantastic addition to the squad, and we’re sure he will hit the ground running at training once he arrives,” Marquez said (via FCG Media).
Drazic is well-known for his technical ability and tricky footwork, which will undoubtedly be a handful for the ISL defenders. He excels when given the freedom to drift inside and is a high-volume, accurate shot-taker, making him a valuable asset for the Gaurs.
The Serbian is known for his pace and well-timed movements, particularly his runs behind defenders. His creativity is evident in his assist numbers, having recorded 14 assists last season. While his right foot is stronger, he is comfortable using his left, especially in and around the penalty area where he is often lethal.
Drazic’s crossing ability is another weapon for FC Goa, particularly under head coach Manolo Marquez, who prefers his wide players to deliver early crosses from the touchline.
Overall, this signing is certainly a statement for FC Goa and the ISL, as it improves the league’s quality.
Edited by Samya Majumdar
