Explanation: Kerala Blasters, a professional football club based in Kochi, Kerala, India, competes in the Indian Super League (ISL). The club has a history of signing both Indian and foreign players to strengthen their team. For the 2019-20 season, the club's first foreign signing was Mario Arques, a Spanish midfielder.
Mario Arques, born on January 15, 1990, in Barcelona, Spain, is known for his technical skills and ability to control the midfield. His signing was a strategic move by Kerala Blasters to enhance their midfield capabilities and provide a strong foundation for the team's performance in the ISL.
It is important to note that the club's signing strategy often involves bringing in players who can complement the existing squad and bring in new skills and experiences. Mario Arques was chosen for his experience and ability to contribute to the team's overall performance.
The other options provided in the question are incorrect for the following reasons:
- Sergio Cidoncha, a Spanish midfielder, joined Kerala Blasters later in the 2019-20 season, making him not the first foreign signing.
- Bartholomew Ogbeche, a Nigerian striker, was signed by Kerala Blasters in a different season, not the 2019-20 season.
- Raphael Messi Bouli, a Cameroonian striker, also joined the club in a different season, not the 2019-20 season.
Understanding the timeline and specific details of player signings is crucial for accurately answering questions related to the history and development of football clubs in the Indian Super League. This knowledge helps in comprehending the strategic decisions made by the club to improve their performance and competitiveness in the league.