The preparation of the 2025-26 season of Indian Football has already started for various clubs, and two-time I-League runners-up Sreenidi Deccan have made an early statement by signing right back Hardik Bhatt on a permanent transfer, on a one-year deal Fieldvision can exclusively confirm.
The 27-year-old Mumbai-born defender has joined the Hyderabad-based club despite strong interest and offers from several ISL sides, including Odisha FC and newly promoted I-League outfit Diamond Harbour FC, who are aiming for a third straight promotion and a coveted ISL spot.
Bhatt had initially signed a one-year deal with reigning ISL giants Mumbai City FC last summer, with an option for extension. However, limited opportunities meant he made just one appearance for the Islanders in the first half of the season. Seeking game time, he moved to Sreenidi Deccan on loan during the January transfer window, where he immediately slotted in as a starter and impressed with his performances.
A source familiar with the negotiations told Fieldvision stating “Sreenidi were impressed with Hardik and offered him a permanent contract after his loan ended. They laid out their clear ambitions to qualify for the ISL and assured him of regular playing time, which ultimately convinced him to sign, even though several ISL clubs were pursuing him.”
In nine appearances last season, Bhatt provided two assists, standing out in a Sreenidi Deccan side that underperformed overall. The club finished ninth in the I-League, a disappointing result that led to the sacking of head coach Rui Amorim in January. Assistant coach Ishant Singh took over for the remainder of the campaign.
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Determined to bounce back stronger, Sreenidi are not only reshaping their squad but are also actively looking to appoint a foreign head coach to lead the team next season, Fieldvision has learned. The club’s management headed by Chief of Football Fabio Ferreira, is keen to fix the issues that plagued last season and mount a serious challenge for promotion to the ISL.
Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC are also undergoing significant changes following a turbulent season. Bhatt is one of several players the club has released as they rebuild their core squad. Mumbai have already secured the signing of promising defensive midfielder Lalnuntluanga Bawitlung who last appeared for Sreenidi Deccan on a multi-year deal as part of their fresh strategy.
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