The 2024-2025 Indian Super League (ISL) season has been another testing one for East Bengal FC. Entering the campaign with high expectations and a bolstered squad, the club aimed to overcome past disappointments and stage a comeback.
The management displayed strong intent from the outset, retaining key players while securing top talents, including the previous season’s Golden Boot winner and leading assist provider, fueling hopes of a revival. The signings of Jeakson Singh and David Lalhlansanga further strengthened the squad, while Anwar Singh’s late arrival provided much-needed defensive stability as the team pushed forward.
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A Season of Ups and Downs
East Bengal FC’s early struggles in the ACL Two Preliminary Stage and the Durand Cup foreshadowed the challenges ahead. Despite boasting a strong squad, the Red and Gold Brigade endured a dismal start to their ISL campaign, suffering six consecutive defeats. This poor run led to the departure of Super Cup-winning coach Carles Cuadrat as the club sought a turnaround.
In mid-October, East Bengal FC found some rhythm in the AFC Challenge League, securing a knockout spot and gaining much-needed confidence. They carried this momentum into the ISL, showing glimpses of promise and ending the year on a positive note.
However, injuries to key players disrupted their progress at a crucial juncture. January, filled with high-stakes fixtures, proved pivotal as the Kolkata side managed just four points from a possible 15. A heavy home defeat to Chennaiyin FC in February further dented their hopes. Though a late resurgence, including three consecutive wins, briefly reignited their playoff ambitions, a home draw against Bengaluru FC ultimately dashed their aspirations.
Silver Linings in a Challenging Season
Despite the setbacks, East Bengal FC found a few bright spots during the campaign. Their home form was a relative positive, with five wins and 17 points collected. While this placed them mid-table in home performances, it provided a small sense of consolation in an otherwise turbulent season.
Young talents like David Lalhlansanga and PV Vishnu emerged as standout performers, offering glimpses of promise for the future. With the season drawing to a close, attention now turns to the Super Cup in April, where East Bengal will aim to defend their title and salvage something from an otherwise difficult year.
Areas of Concern: Discipline and Creativity
Disciplinary struggles proved to be a major stumbling block for East Bengal FC, significantly affecting their campaign. The team accumulated 59 yellow cards—the second-most in the league—and set an unwanted ISL record with 10 red cards in a single season. From their opening match against Bengaluru FC to their AFC Challenge League quarter-final exit, untimely dismissals consistently disrupted their rhythm, preventing them from building momentum. Addressing this issue will be crucial moving forward, alongside improving their offensive creativity.
Chance creation remained a persistent weakness, despite the presence of promising talent. East Bengal FC managed just 211 chances—the third-lowest in the league—continuing a worrying trend, as they have finished among the bottom three in this category in all five of their ISL seasons. Enhancing their attacking play will be essential to improving their overall performances in future campaigns.
Standout Performer: PV Vishnu
PV Vishnu emerged as a crucial player for East Bengal FC this season, featuring in 22 matches, including 16 starts—a testament to the trust placed in him by the coach.
Operating effectively on both ends of the pitch, Vishnu displayed his goal-scoring prowess from midfield, netting four goals while also providing three assists to create key opportunities for his teammates. His passing accuracy stood at 72%, averaging 17 successful passes per game, underscoring his ability to maintain possession and control the tempo of play.
In an otherwise challenging season, Vishnu’s all-around performances proved invaluable, cementing his status as East Bengal FC’s standout player.
Rising Star: David Lalhlansanga
The 23-year-old forward has been a revelation for East Bengal FC in the 2024-25 ISL season. Despite limited game time, he made a significant impact, scoring four goals in just 568 minutes—making him the club’s top scorer.
Joining from Mohammedan SC after an impressive I-League campaign, Lalhlansanga adapted quickly to the ISL, showcasing not only his goal-scoring instincts but also his versatility. He maintained an impressive 81% passing accuracy and created four key chances, highlighting his influence in the attacking third.
With his sharp finishing and well-rounded playmaking ability, Lalhlansanga has established himself as a valuable asset and a promising prospect for East Bengal FC’s future.
Building for a Stronger Future
To become a more competitive force next season, East Bengal FC must address their recurring issues and refine their tactical approach. While the squad boasts significant talent, improvements in defensive stability, tactical organization, and attacking fluidity will be key to unlocking their full potential.
A major decision looms regarding Oscar Bruzon’s future, and making the right call—along with prioritizing player retention based on performance rather than sentiment—will be crucial. Injuries have disrupted the team’s progress in consecutive seasons, exposing a lack of depth. Strengthening the squad with quality backups will be essential to maintaining consistency throughout the campaign.
The road ahead is challenging, but with smart recruitment, strategic planning, and a clear vision, East Bengal FC can aim for a resurgence and reestablish themselves as strong contenders.
Read More: Chennaiyin FC’s ISL 2024/25 Season Review: Rollercoaster Season Ends in Playoff Heartbreak
FAQs
How did East Bengal FC perform in the 2024/25 ISL season?
East Bengal FC endured a challenging season, finishing outside the playoff spots despite a strong squad and high expectations.
Who was East Bengal FC’s best player of the season?
PV Vishnu stood out as the team’s best player, contributing four goals and three assists while controlling midfield play.
What was East Bengal FC’s biggest weakness this season?
Discipline and chance creation were major concerns, with the team receiving a record 10 red cards and struggling to generate scoring opportunities.
Who was East Bengal FC’s best young player in 2024/25?
David Lalhlansanga impressed in his debut season, finishing as the club’s top scorer with four goals in just 568 minutes.
What does East Bengal FC need to improve next season?
The club must enhance squad depth, improve tactical organization, and address disciplinary issues to become a stronger contender.
