Defending champion Chennaiyin FC is set to retain the services of Raphael Augusto for the third edition of the Indian Super League.
The 25-year-old defensive midfielder from Brazil was one of the most influential players for his team last year, providing inch-perfect passes to the forwards. He, however, got injured in the penultimate league match and was ruled out for the rest of the season.
Augusto played 12 matches, making some spectacular tackles and crucial interventions. Along the way, he committed just one foul!
He joined Chennaiyin FC on loan from Brazilian giant Fluminense. He has also played in the USA (for DC United in the Major Soccer League) and Poland (Legia Warsaw).
Chennaiyin FC manager Marco Materazzi has always had high regards for the Brazilian for his calm presence in the midfield. “He (Augusto) can play for top clubs in Europe,” Materazzi had said.
“He was one of the contenders for the ‘best player of the tournament’ award, but unfortunately he got injured,” said a source close to the developments.
