Pune: The Pune based ISL Franchise FC Pune City, today, signed up one of Indian Super League’s most decorated goalkeepers Edel Bete for the 2016 season of the league. The Goalkeeper last played with 2015 champions Chennaiyin FC and was a part of defending champs Atletico de Kolkata in the inaugural season of the ISL.
Speaking about the new signing, an excited FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel said, “Bete has a towering presence in front of the goal. He is one of those rare goalkeepers who can read his opponents mind early enough to anticipate and make a difference.”
Further he added,” The fact that he has been a crucial cog for both the sides that won ISL in the first two seasons (ATK in ’14 & CFC in ‘15) says enough and more about his abilities.”
Bete has the reputation of being a member of French giants Paris Saint-Germain once. The 30-year old Cameroon national has represented Armenia at U-19, U-23 and senior level. The goalkeeper has also represented Israeli champions Hapoel Tel Aviv during 2011-2013.
FC Pune City Head coach Antonio Habas, speaking about the new association, was delighted to have his former ward join forces, said, “I’ve worked with Bete in the first season and let me tell you he is gifted with amazing reflexes and better anticipation. Rival strikers have never found it easy to score against him. For me, he is the finest keeper in ISL’s short history.”
The top-notch custodian who’ll be representing his third club in third ISL season, Bete said, “My experience playing in India has been memorable to say the least. I’ve won the title with two different teams and am looking forward to win it with my third team, i.e. FC Pune City. I am thankful to FC Pune City for providing me a new challenge and work with Habas again.”
The Cinema Celebrity and Co-owner of FC Pune City Hrithik Roshan said, “Bete has been a proven performer and his addition to our club makes us a strong unit. I welcome him to the FC Pune City family.”