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Often, midfielders have a penchant for the ‘spectacular’, a liking for tackles and a flair for pinging accurate long balls. Atlético de Kolkata's Borja Fernandez is one such midfielder who has captivated all with these skills. The 33-year-old has been one of the key links in a resolute Kolkata side which sits comfortably at second spot with 16 points.
‘Borja’, as he is commonly known, has played a total of 187 games in La Liga representing sides such as Real Madrid, Real Valladolid, Getafe and Deportivo la Coruña. A solid midfielder, he was instrumental in Real Valladolid's Spanish Segunda Division win (2006-07). After his success in Spain, Borja moved abroad and joined Sourav Ganguly's Kolkata, wherein he was a foreign recruit, both for the franchise and also the inaugural Hero Indian Super League (ISL).
A Real Madrid youth product, Borja burst into the limelight at the ISL when he scored a sensational screamer against Mumbai City FC in the opening fixture of the star studded tournament. Since then, the Spanish midfielder has developed good chemistry with an exciting bunch of players present in the Kolkata side like Fikru Teferra and former Liverpool midfielder Luis Garcia.
A defensive juggernaut infused with the ability to pick a pass, Borja has displayed his varied array of talents in his nine appearances for the franchise. With one goal, one assist, three shots on goal and 33 tackles, the Spaniard is arguably one of the best defensive midfielders in the ISL.
Borja, who covers up for Garcia's defensive lapses, has been a pillar in Kolkata’s resolute midfield. He has vibed well with the imposing Ofentse Nato and this has helped the team immensely as the latter provides defensive cover and the former bombards forward when in sight of a goal. A disciple of the Spanish quick one-touch passing game, Borja has been a silent performer in a Kolkata side often highlighted by the talents of Garcia.
