ISL 2019 | Spanish midfielder Mario Arqués signs for Kerala Blasters
Indian Super League team Kerala Blasters officially confirmed the signing of midfielder Mario Arqués after he spent the last year playing for Jamshedpur FC. The 27-year-old has played for some renowned clubs in La Liga and the Spanish Segunda division, and was a key player for his team last season.
A versatile player who can not only distribute the ball well but is also adept at playing in a more defensive role in the midfield, Arqués is known for breaking down opposition attacks before hitting them by initiating a counter for his own team. His skill set will definitely be a big boost for Kerala Blasters FC, especially considering the brand of football their head coach Eelco Schattorie prefers.
“I’m very happy to have Mario Arques on board. He is a player who has proved himself very valuable for the team, during the last season of the ISL. He can play several positions, is a dynamic forward, and most of all has a very good trait of wanting to work hard for the team I'm looking forward to working with him,” said the manager who is known for playing fast paced, attacking football.
Having risen through the ranks at Villarreal CF, Arqués has played for the B teams of some elite clubs such as Valencia, Elche, and Sporting de Gijon, apart from having played in the Spanish first division for Elche, where he made his debut against one of the world’s best clubs, Atletico Madrid on April 2015.
His season with Jamshedpur was a fruitful one as he remained their key player throughout the season, starting in all their matches and putting in one consistent performance after the other. He was responsible for orchestrating the play from the middle of the pitch and even racked up three goals and a couple of assists, even though his team failed to make it to the semifinals. The player is known for his high work rate and constant endeavour to win the midfield battle.
“I feel proud to wear the Kerala Blasters jersey and will fight to give the team to what it deserves. To know Kerala, play entertaining football for the fans and achieve victories together is something I always wanted to do. I will put my heart here and give my best here for this club,” Arques remarked.
