FC Goa have brought onboard 27-year-old Australian defender James Donachie on a one-year loan deal from A-League side Newcastle Jets. The centre-back will satisfy the ISL criteria of one of the foreign players signed to be from an AFC country – Australia signed to be part of the Asian Football Confederation in 2006.
Hailing from the city of Brisbane, Donachie started his youth career with local club Brisbane Roar FC in 2010. He signed a pro contract with the club in 2012. After four seasons with the senior team in which he picked up two A-League winners’ medals, James left Brisbane and joined another A-League club Melbourne Victory FC in 2016.
The 6 foot 4 inch defender spent four seasons at Melbourne Victory. During his time in Melbourne, he was briefly loaned out to Korean League 1 side Jeonnam Dragons. After rejoining the club following his loan spell, James helped Melbourne to the A-League title in the 2017-18 season.
In August this year, James signed a three year contract with New South Wales side Newcastle Jets. However with salary cuts of up to 30% at most A-League clubs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Newcastle Jets allowed Donachie to leave on loan.
Donachie has featured in 135 matches in the A-League and has represented Australia at U-20 and U-23 levels. James has also played in the AFC Champions League with both Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory and his experience will hold him in good stead as FC Goa prepare to embark on their first ever AFC Champions League campaign later this season.
I am thrilled to be coming to Goa and India. This should be a great opportunity and challenge for me.
I will be playing for a club that’s not only looking to challenge for the title but will also be playing at the highest level in Asia – the AFC Champions League.
I feel this move comes at the right time for me. I can’t wait to set sail to India and get on to the ground.
James Donachie
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