Indian Super League (ISL) side Mohun Bagan Super Giant has strengthened its squad with the acquisition of Spanish centre-back Alberto Rodriguez.

The defender joins the Mariners on a two-year deal from Indonesian club Persib Bandung. He becomes the club's third signing ahead of the new season, following Lalengmawia Ralte and Tom Aldred.

The 6ft 3in tall defender brings a wealth of experience, having played across Europe and Asia. He won Liga 1 with Persib Bandung last season and was also in the Team of the Season.

Speaking on the occasion, head coach Jose Molina said, “Alberto is a centre-back known for his physicality and aggressiveness, making him a leader in the backline. In addition to his defensive skills, he excels in building up play from the back and is proficient with both feet. Last season, he played a pivotal role in leading his team to victory in the Indonesian league.”

Alberto Rodriguez said, “I have been following the ISL for the last few years and witnessed Mohun Bagan Super Giant's dominant League Shield win. However, one of the primary reasons I chose to sign for the club was its immense fanbase.

“Playing in front of packed stadiums usually brings out the best in me, and MBSG is unparalleled in this regard in India. My main goal will be to defend the League Shield and pursue victory in other trophies as well.”

Mohammad Yasir signs long-term contract with FC Goa

Indian Super League (ISL) outfit FC Goa have completed the permanent signing of midfielder Mohammad Yasir. The left-footed playmaker has agreed to a long-term contract with the club that will keep him with the Gaurs until the end of the 2027-28 season.

Yasir initially joined FC Goa on a short-term deal from Hyderabad FC during the winter break of the 2023-24 season.

Manolo Marquez, Head Coach of FC Goa, expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, stating: “Yasir’s performances since re-joining us have been nothing short of outstanding. His vision, creativity, and determination have significantly bolstered our midfield.

“Since I first arrived in India, he has been part of my teams every single year. He is more mature in his decision-making now and is technically a better player too. He is one of the best left-footed players in India, and with every season, he improves his numbers in terms of goals and assists,” he added.

The 26-year-old made a significant impact during his recent stint with FC Goa, contributing two goals and four assists in 13 appearances. His efforts were instrumental in the Gaurs’ journey to the semi-finals of the ISL Cup playoffs and their third-place finish in the ISL League stage, just three points behind winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Reflecting on his permanent move, Mohammad Yasir said: “Rejoining FC Goa last season did not feel new at all. It felt great to be back in Goa, with Coach Manolo. It was like I was back home again. The support from the fans and the Club has been incredible.

“I’m looking forward to staying here for a long time, and the objective for everyone in the club is to win trophies. We have to work hard for this objective and I will do my best to contribute as much as I can.

“Personally, I would like to improve my goal-scoring. It is an aspect that I always try to work on more and more and I feel there has been improvement in the last two seasons, but a lot is left to be done. Of course, I love to create chances for my teammates as well, and that is also something that I want to continue doing,” he signed off.

Mobashir Rahman completes his move to Jamshedpur FC

Midfielder Mobashir Rahman has completed his move from East Bengal FC to Jamshedpur FC. He has signed a two-year contract with the Men of Steel, with the option to extend it for another year.

Rahman was a vital cog in Jamshedpur FC's triumphant ISL Shield winning campaign in 2021-22. His impressive performances yielded 2 goals and 4 assists previously for the Men of Steel.

The move exhibits Head Coach Khalid Jamil’s philosophy of acquiring experienced winners while balancing youth and homegrown talent.

Mobashir Rahman's return to his hometown club was emotional as he exuded joy and commitment and said, “Rejoining Jamshedpur FC is an honour and privilege to represent my motherland once again. I'm thrilled to be back at the Furnace, where my ISL journey began. I'm committed to delivering my best performances and making my family, the fans, and Jamshedpur proud. I'm indebted to Coach Khalid Jamil for placing his trust in me, and I aim to justify his faith by continuously striving for excellence under his leadership.”

Mobashir Rahman, a sturdy and skilled midfielder with roots in Jamshedpur, brings a solid presence to the midfield of the Men of Steel. His football journey began following in his father's footsteps who had previously represented Bihar. He joined the Chandigarh Football Academy in 2012 and was later chosen to the esteemed Tata Football Academy in 2014, where he won the prestigious IFA Shield. After being part of JFC youth teams (TFA), Mobashir graduated from the Jamshedpur FC Reserves squad and made his ISL debut for the Men of Steel in 2018. In 2022, he made a move to East Bengal FC and subsequently had a brief loan spell at Chennaiyin FC in 2024.

“I welcome Mobashir Rahman back. As a local lad and product of the Tata Football Academy, this move holds great significance. I've watched him grow and develop as a player, and this season presents a crucial opportunity for him to shine. Although a young player, he now has ISL experience under his belt and hence have high expectations. He'll need to push himself to the limit to earn his place in the team and prove his worth to the club, as there's stiff competition in his position” said Head Coach Khalid Jamil.

Punjab FC sign Vinit Rai and Muheet Shabir

Punjab FC have announced the signing of midfielder Vinit Rai and goalkeeper Muheet Shabir ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 season. Rai last played for Indian Super League Cup winners Mumbai City FC while Muheet played for I-League side Real Kashmir FC.

The 26-year-old Assam-born Rai graduated from the Tata Football Academy before signing for Dempo FC in Goa. He was signed by Kerala Blasters ahead of the 2016-17 ISL season and then joined Odisha FC in 2017. He made 68 appearances for the team, scoring once and captaining the side.

He later joined Mumbai City FC on loan in the 2022 season and was signed permanently in the next season. Vinit also has 11 caps for the National side, making his debut in 2018.

Rai will be instrumental in linking the play between the defence and the forward lines and possesses a wide range of passing. His experience will be vital for the club’s performance in their second season in the ISL.

Muheet Shabir made 23 appearances for Real Kashmir in the I-League, keeping 12 clean sheets, the highest in the league. The 22-year-old from Srinagar started his career with the J&K Sports Council Football Academy and later signed for Kerala Blasters. He played for Downtown Heroes FC in the 2023 Durand Cup and later for Real Kashmir in the I-League.


Speaking about the signing of a Technical Director of Punjab FC, Nikolaos Topoliatis said, “We are happy to have signed both Vinit and Muheet to our side for the upcoming season. Vinit is a vastly experienced and dynamic midfielder who will add weight to the side. Muheet is an exciting young goalkeeper who will be a great asset to the team. Both players will have a vital role to play in the upcoming season.”

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2023-2024