Ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL 2024-25), FC Goa announced the return of Laxmikant Kattimani, with the experienced goalkeeper signing a one-year contract.
Kattimani’s addition allows the Club to leverage on his vast experience, while also allowing them flexibility as they continue to build for the future with the likes of Arshdeep Singh, Lara Sharma and Bob Jackson also being a part of their goal-keeping department.
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Born and raised in Goa, Laxmikant Kattimani began his senior professional career with Vasco SC during their debut I-League season in 2008-09. The following year, he joined Dempo SC, where he spent seven successful seasons, winning the I-League twice in 2009-10 and 2011-12.
His consistent performances then earned him a spot at FC Goa for the inaugural Indian Super League (ISL) season in 2014. In the 2015 season, the shot-stopper played a key role in helping the team top the league standings and reach the ISL Cup final.
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After a brief return to Dempo SC, where he won promotion back to the I-League, Kattimani rejoined the Men in Orange for the 2016 ISL season. His journey then took him to Mumbai FC on loan, followed by a multi-year contract signing with the Gaurs ahead of the 2017-18 season. In 2019, the goalkeeper moved to Hyderabad FC, where he enjoyed a successful five-year spell.
His most notable achievement with the Nizams came in the 2021-22 season when he played a pivotal role in their ISL Cup triumph under then-head coach Manolo Marquez, with whom he will now reunite at FC Goa. In the final that year, held at the Gaurs’ home ground in Fatorda, Kattimani made crucial saves, including three in the penalty shootout, to secure the trophy.
Overall, the 35-year-old has accumulated over 175 club appearances, keeping 55 clean sheets. His experience also extends to the international stage, having represented India at various youth levels, including being part of the India U23 team that won the SAFF Championship in Bangladesh in 2009.
FC Goa Head Coach Manolo Marquez expressed his thoughts on the 35-year-old’s signing, saying, “Kattimani brings with him a wealth of experience and a calm, mature presence that is invaluable to any team. His performances in high-pressure situations, especially during Hyderabad’s ISL Cup-winning campaign, speak volumes about his capabilities.”
“Beyond his skills on the field, he is a true professional who sets a great example by guiding and working closely with the younger goalkeepers in the squad,” the Spaniard added.
Reflecting on his return to FC Goa, Laxmikant Kattimani commented, “Returning to FC Goa feels like coming back home. This Club has always been a special place for me, with its passionate fanbase and a strong footballing culture. The Club’s ambition to continue competing at the highest level aligns perfectly with my personal goals, making it the best next step for my career.”
“Reuniting with coach Manolo Marquez is also something I’m really looking forward to. Our success together at Hyderabad FC is something I cherish, and his philosophy and approach to the game resonate with me. His presence here certainly played a role in my decision. Coach Asier Rey’s communication skills and training helped me to improve as a goalkeeper a lot and I hope to continue to do the same again this year,” he added.
“My primary objective this season is to help FC Goa compete for the top honours in every competition we play. I want to contribute to a team culture that values hard work, unity, and resilience. Personally, I aim to bring my best every day, on and off the pitch, to help the Club achieve their goals and bring joy to our fans,” he concluded.
