The two-time Indian Super League champions Chennaiyin FC confirmed the signing of Mumbai City FC defender Lucian Goian for the upcoming season on Tuesday.

The towering Romanian centre-back joined the Islanders ahead of the 2016 campaign and in his very first season in India, inspired the team to their first-ever semi-final in the ISL.

Over the course of the next two seasons, Goian went on to represent Mumbai City in a total of 50 matches and firmly established himself as one of the most coveted defenders in the league.

“It feels great to sign with Chennaiyin. The coach (John Gregory) played a huge role in me coming here (to CFC). When he asked me if I wish to return to India to win the ISL trophy, I simply said yes,” Goian was quoted as saying in a release by Chennaiyin FC.

“I believe Chennaiyin along with John (Gregory) are a club that knows how to win trophies, and I can’t wait to get started and give my absolute 100% on the pitch. I am confident we will do everything to make the squad a team and bring the ISL title back to Chennai. The Chennaiyin fans are among the best, always backing the team unconditionally and creating a fantastic atmosphere. They deserve all the success, and I am excited to meet them and play for them,” he said.

He captained the Islanders in the 2017-18 campaign and played a major role in guiding them to the semi-finals again in 2018-19.

Goian’s ability to effortlessly put in challenges both on the ground and in the air makes him an imposing figure at the back. His tally of 246 tackles, 93 interceptions, 379 clearances and 63 blocks testifies to his ability to become the centre-piece of any defence.

The veteran defender can also be a menace in the opposition box during set-pieces and can contribute with crucial goals.

Besides his physical prowess, the Romanian is a natural leader on the pitch and leads by example. With Goian in the squad, Chennaiyin will hope to put last season’s disappointing run on the rear-view mirror and look forward to a successful 2019-20 season.