Brazilian defender Eli Sabia extends stay at Chennaiyin FC

ISL team Chennaiyi FC on Wednesday extended its contract with Brazilian defender Eli Sabia for 2020-21 season, club said.

"I am delighted beyond words to continue my time at Chennaiyin FC. love that my family and I have received from club, fans, and city of Chennai is unmatched," Sabia was quoted as saying by Channayin FC in a statement from his Santa Catarina residence in Brazil.

"We have unfinished business from last season after we fell just short in final. We go again in new season with renewed hope and determination to bring a third ISL title to Chennai," he added.

experienced centre-back had started in 19 of CFC's 21 games last season as y put toger a stunning run to final, which included an eight-game unbeaten streak.

CFC co-owner Vita Dani said, "Eli (Sabia) is embodiment of hard work, determination and consistency at Chennaiyin. We are glad he has extended his stay with us and we look forward to him continuing to excel in Chennaiyin blue."

With 59 appearances for CFC in all competitions so far, Sabia is preparing for a fourth season with Marina Arena club by focusing on his fitness currently back home in Brazil.

He had his first stint at Chennaiyin in 2016 and after having returned to Brazil for a short spell at Sertaozinho FC before switching to Al Raed in Saudi Arabia. He re-joined two-time ISL champions ahead of 2018-19 season. 

Im credits: PTI