Midfielder Rubio calls time on Bengaluru FC career

Spanish midfielder Alvaro Rubio called time on his short Bengaluru FC sojourn after seeing out his contract that ended on November 30.

Brought in by coach Albert Roca in July to add experience to Bengaluru's Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup campaign, 37-year-old Alvaro was a vital factor in the team reaching the final, where they lost 0-1 against Iraq's Air Force Club.

The former captain of Spanish club Real Valladolid came to Bengaluru having played more than 300 La Liga games.

"I had a stupendous experience at BFC. Personally, it was a positive development for me and I am very grateful to the players, management, fans and everyone associated with the club. I wasn't from the country but they always made me feel at home," said Rubio, according to a press release.

"I am sure that this club has a great future ahead. I would like to thank everyone again and I hope we meet soon."

"Alvaro was brought with a specific plan in mind for the AFC Cup and he leaves having done everything that was asked of him. He's been a great professional and in a short time has managed to be an influence on the youngsters in the team who I believe, have learned much from him. We wish him luck and thank him for his time with Bengaluru FC," said Roca.

The club also parted ways with midfielder Darren Caldeira and right-back Vishal Kumar who, like Rubio, were on short-term deals.

--IANS

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