Ishan Pandita, an 18-year old, created history by becoming the first Indian to sign a professional contract with La Liga outfit CD Leganes on Monday. The newly promoted club in the first division of Spanish League sits on the 11th position, with three wins and as many losses to their name so far.
Ishan, the Bengaluru born, will be joining the U-19 side, which plays the Division Honour de Juvenil, the top division for under-19 players. By inking a one-year contract with the club, Ishan assured his chances of playing against the La Liga champions and European giants, Barcelona and Real Madrid in coming days.
Pandita moved to Bengaluru from the Philippines in 2009, before shifting to Spain to groom his skills in the sport two years back. He had immediate success by making it to Almeria’s youth system, before trialling for various La Liga clubs.
His side Club Deportivo Leganes will play the current Europa Champions, Sevilla, on Saturday, 15 October, in the Premier Division match.