East Bengal FC will be looking to reverse their fortunes in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024/25 season. After a series of underwhelming campaigns, including a disappointing 9th place finish last season, the Red and Gold Brigade appear set for a resurgence. They have brought in a slew of exciting summer signings that have raised expectations among their passionate fan base. Under the experienced guidance of head coach Carles Cuadrat, East Bengal FC is gearing up to prove their critics wrong and establish themselves as serious contenders in the league.
Summer Transfer Window
East Bengal FC’s summer transfer activity has been nothing short of transformative. Determined to address the shortcomings of the past, the club has made several strategic signings, enhancing their squad depth and quality in key positions. The headline acquisitions include the ISL’s top scorer from last season, Dimitrios Diamantakos, who joins from Kerala Blasters, and the top assist provider, Madih Talal, from Punjab. Both players bring proven pedigree and a knack for contributing to the score sheet, which could prove invaluable to the Red and Gold side.
In addition to these marquee signings, East Bengal has also secured the services of Hector Yuste & Anwar Ali from rivals Mohun Bagan SG, along with David Lalhlansanga, a young talent who played a crucial role in Mohammedan SC’s I-League triumph last season. Another significant addition is Indian international Jeakson Singh, the central defensive midfielder, addressing a longstanding gap in their squad. These signings not only bring quality but also provide versatility, allowing Cuadrat to experiment with different formations and tactics.
The club has been equally proactive in releasing players who no longer fit into their plans, including Sarthak Golui and Kamaljit Singh, whose contracts were terminated. Experienced campaigners like Mandar Rao Dessai, Felicio Brown Forbes, and Victor Vazquez have also departed following the end of their contracts. The club went into the summer window with the aim to rebuild with a more balanced and dynamic squad, and so they did.
Pre-Season
East Bengal FC’s pre-season was a mixed bag, offering both promise and cause for concern. The team began strongly, winning two of their group stage matches in the Durand Cup, but suffered an unexpected defeat to Shillong Lajong FC in the quarter-final. Additionally, their campaign in the ACL Two preliminary round saw them lose to Turkmenistan’s Altyn Asyr, highlighting some defensive frailties that need urgent attention.
These early setbacks have raised questions about the team’s readiness for the ISL. While there were positives, such as the performances of new signings Diamantakos and Talal, Cuadrat must address the defensive lapses and inconsistency if they are to challenge for a playoff spot. Injuries have also been a concern, with a few key players missing parts of the pre-season, but the squad now appears to be in better shape as they prepare for their ISL opener.
Squad Compared to Last Season
Compared to last season, East Bengal FC has significantly strengthened their squad across multiple positions. The attack looks more potent with the addition of Diamantakos and Talal, both of whom bring creativity, goals, and assists. The midfield has been bolstered by the arrival of Jeakson Singh, who offers defensive stability and allows the more creative players like Talal and Naorem Mahesh Singh to operate freely.
Defensively, the inclusion of Hector Yuste and Anwar Ali adds experience and leadership at the back, while new signings such as Provat Lakra and the now permanent-signing Nishu Kumar provide additional options in full-back positions. Overall, the squad appears more balanced, with greater depth and versatility compared to last season. However, they will need to translate this on-paper strength into consistent performances on the pitch.
Most exciting player to look forward to
While much attention will be on the obvious stars like Diamantakos, French midfielder Madih Talal is perhaps the most exciting player to watch this season. With his excellent ball control, vision, and ability to score, Talal could become the creative heartbeat of this East Bengal side. He arrives on the back of a stellar debut season in the ISL, where he led the league in assists and showcased his potential as a playmaker. If Talal can build on his early form and continue to gel with his teammates, he could be a game-changer for the Red and Gold Brigade.
Player with a Point to Prove
Jeakson Singh, the promising Indian international, comes to East Bengal FC with something to prove. After a successful spell at Kerala Blasters FC, Jeakson now has an opportunity to establish himself as India’s best defensive midfielder. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively will be crucial in allowing East Bengal FC to play their preferred style of fast, direct attacking football. For Jeakson, this season represents a chance to solidify his place in the national team and make a name for himself as the best at one of India’s biggest clubs.
Best XI
Best XI – Prabhsukhan Gill, Mohammad Rakip, Chungnunga, Hector Yuste, Provat Lakra, Jeakson Singh, Saul Crespo, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Madih Talal, Nandhakumar Sekar, Dimitrios Diamantakos.
Predictions
East Bengal FC enters the 2024/25 ISL season with renewed optimism. Their summer transfer activity has provided the squad with much-needed balance and quality. However, their mixed pre-season results suggest that challenges remain. If they can quickly resolve their defensive issues and find consistency, there is no reason why East Bengal FC cannot compete for a playoff spot and possibly more. Under Cuadrat’s experienced guidance, and with the fervent support of their passionate fanbase, the Red and Gold Brigade could very well be one of the season’s surprise packages.
The journey begins with a challenging away game against Bengaluru, followed by a home fixture against Kerala Blasters. With tough fixtures against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan and AFC Challenge League commitments, East Bengal FC’s mettle will be tested early. If they can navigate these challenges successfully, the 2024/25 season could mark the beginning of a new era for this historic club.
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