In a significant blow to FC Goa, their influential Spanish midfielder Borja Herrera has been compelled to leave the club and secure a transfer to Indonesia. The primary reason cited for this abrupt departure is the prevailing uncertainty surrounding the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL).
A Sudden and Unwanted Farewell
The club confirmed the exit after Herrera informed his teammates on Friday morning that his tenure in Goa had come to an end. Having been one of the team's most pivotal players over the last three seasons, his departure marks the loss of a key figure. Herrera holds the unique distinction of being the only player to win three consecutive Super Cup titles in India.
In an emotional social media post, Borja expressed his disappointment. "After two and a half seasons, I have to say goodbye, and not in the way I expected," he wrote. He explained that the situation had become "untenable" for him and his family. The Spanish midfielder directly pointed fingers at the decision-makers, stating, "Those in charge have pushed me to make this decision, as after countless meetings, they still haven't made a real decision."
A Stellar Indian Journey Cut Short
Borja Herrera's Indian football journey began during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic. He followed his former coach, Manolo Marquez, from Las Palmas to Hyderabad FC. After a stint with East Bengal where he clinched the Super Cup, he reunited with Marquez at FC Goa when his previous move didn't pan out as planned.
On the pitch, Herrera was the coach's trusted lieutenant. His contribution was substantial, with 14 goals and 10 assists for the Gaurs. He scored memorable goals, including a stunning free-kick in the 2024-25 ISL semi-final against Bengaluru FC, which was voted the club's best goal of the season. However, he will perhaps be best remembered for his match-winning brace against Jamshedpur FC in last season's Super Cup final.
Despite the acrimonious exit, Herrera stated he was leaving with a "heavy heart," cherishing the bond with a team that felt like family. He praised his teammates for maintaining their spirit "despite the problems."
A Stern Warning to Indian Football Authorities
Borja did not mince words while addressing the All India Football Federation (AIFF). His advice was blunt and clear: "Please stop the nonsense and make a decision to save Indian football. This is shameful." This public criticism highlights the deep frustration among players due to the administrative delays affecting the league's scheduling and planning.
His exit follows a trend, as he becomes the second foreign player this month to mutually part ways with FC Goa, after Spanish striker Javier Siverio moved to a club in Greece. This exodus raises concerns about the club's stability and the broader appeal of the ISL in the current climate of indecision.
