Indian Super League (ISL) outfit Mohun Bagan Super Giant has further strengthened their star-studded lineup with the signing of Hector Yuste, the club announced on Thursday.

The Spaniard will join the Mariners ahead of the new season from the Cypriot top division club AC Omonia, where he won the Cypriot Cup twice and the Cypriot Super Cup in 2021.

During his time with Omonia, Yuste also played in the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League group stages. The 35-year-old central defender, who can also operate as a defensive midfielder, brings plenty of playing experience with him.

Yuste also plied his trade in several Spanish clubs like Granada, Mallorca, and Racing Santander, to name a few. His addition to the team is expected to significantly bolster the Kolkata side.

Commenting on the occasion, Yuste said: “Mohun Bagan Super Giant are one of the historic clubs in India. They were also the champions of the previous season. I have come to know that this club has one of the best popularities and fanbases in the country. Many Spanish coaches and players have gained recognition by playing in India. I am truly excited about donning the Green and Maroon jersey. I'll strive to give my best for the club to achieve more success.”

Mohun Bagan Super Giant head coach, Juan Ferrando said, “Hector (Yuste) is an experienced player who has enjoyed success in the Spanish first division. I have had the chance to watch him play, and I believe that his experience and leadership qualities will greatly benefit Mohun Bagan Super Giant.”

NorthEast United FC sign three talented young players

NorthEast United FC added three young prospects - Shajan Franklin, Macarton Louis Nickson, and Mukul Panwar to their roster.

The dynamic trio add to a growing roster of prospects joining the Highlanders ahead of the 2023-24 season. While Shajan has signed a one-year contract, both Macarton and Mukul have penned three-year deals. Both Shajan and Macarton were teammates in the midfield at FC Bengaluru United and featured in the 2nd Division I-League earlier this year.

Mukul has been associated with the Chandigarh Football Academy and is taking his first step into professional football. The 16-year-old defender was also a part of the Indian National Team at the 2023 U-17 AFC Asian Cup and even got his name on the scoresheet against the eventual winners Japan.

Assistant Coach Naushad Moosa hailed the signings of the three youngsters, stating, "Shajan was a key part of the Karnataka team that won the Santosh Trophy earlier this year. I have been tracking Macarton since his time with the Indian Arrows. Both players are tall and technically gifted. Mukul had a good outing at the U-17 AFC Asian Cup just over a month ago. All of them have the potential to make the first team in the near future."

The trio’s key reasonings behind joining the Highlanders is due to the club’s desire to give opportunities to young footballers as well as their eagerness to play in the ISL.

NorthEast United FC CEO Mandar Tamhane extended a hearty welcome to the club’s latest signings.

He said, "Our vision at NorthEast United FC is centred around nurturing and developing talents, and these young players perfectly embody that philosophy. Our approach involves creating a pool of talented Indian players, which includes the first team and reserve team working together in synergy. As we continue to build a strong foundation for the club, we are thrilled to welcome Shajan Franklin, Macarton Louis Nickson, and Mukul Panwar to our squad."

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Mohun Bagan Super GiantNorthEast United FC