HYDERABAD: Hyderabad FC have signed a three-year deal with young attacker Aniket Jadhav, who was part of India's U-17 World Cup squad in 2017, the Indian Super League side announced on Wednesday.
The 21-year-old can play in multiple positions in the attack, the club added.
“I can’t wait to play for Hyderabad FC and I am looking forward to working with the exciting squad and coaching staff at the club,” Aniket said, after completing formalities on a long-term deal that keeps him at the club till the end of the 2023-24 season.
“Given that many of the good young players in the ISL are playing for HFC, there will be a healthy competition amongst us to push each other in becoming the best,” he added.
Born in Kolhapur, Aniket began his football career with Pune FC Academy spending three years at the club, playing across multiple age groups. In 2015, he was drafted into the India camp for the U17 World Cup after a selection trial.
Aniket constantly impressed during his time with the national youth team and was a mainstay of the squad that went on to play in the AFC U16 Championships and the FIFA U17 World Cup, both held in India.
Head Coach Manolo Marquez believes that Aniket will add competition to the young side, with his versatility. “Young players, especially attackers, need to play regularly. But it is not easy for them to maintain a high level throughout the season. This is where competition is important in a squad and Aniket will fit right in,” said the Spaniard.
“He is fast and can play in any attacking position. Wingers are important for our style and I’m sure that Aniket will be a good addition to our squad,” he added.
