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Juan Mera is back in India after a gap of one season. After last featuring for Quess East Bengal during the 2019-20 I-League, the Spanish forward was signed by NEROCA FC for the 2021-22 campaign.
Mera has been reunited with fellow attacker Sergio Mendigutxia, who was his teammate at Spanish clubs Sporting de Gijón and Racing de Ferrol. “We have been friends for years and this is our fourth season together with three different teams, so we have a telepathic understanding. For me, Mendi is the best striker in the I-League and it is a pleasure playing with him,” said Mera, who already gave proof of his word by assisting Mendigutxia twice in his hattrick against Sreenidi Deccan on the opening matchday.
Mera personally had a good outing in India during his last stint, scoring two goals in 15 appearances for Quess East Bengal two seasons ago. However, the Spaniard did express his disappointment over not being able to fulfill the ultimate goal – lifting the I-League trophy. “That season wasn’t perfect because we didn’t win the league. Nevertheless, being in India for the first time was an incredible experience and I appreciate the support of East Bengal fans.”
When asked about what attracted him to return to India, Mera replied: “I really like experiencing football in other countries, and I really enjoyed football here in India and the way the fans live football here.”
The Spaniard has a different challenge on hand this time around in the country, as he joins a NEROCA team that ended up rock bottom of the table last season. “To be honest, I am very comfortable at NEROCA and feel valued in the team. We have incredible harmony in the squad,” said Mera.
An incredibly versatile forward, Mera has operated in a variety of positions in the final third. “I am comfortable in any attacking position. The only thing I want is to have the ball as much as possible, to keep control of the match.”
If Mera’s debut performance for NEROCA in their 3-2 win over Sreenidi Deccan is anything to go by, the Orange Brigade fans are undoubtedly in for a treat this season.
