East Bengal have already started preparing for the 2024 season, as they face an important challenge in the form of the AFC Champions League 2 Qualifiers. The Red and Gold side qualified after winning the Kalinga Super Cup, and are now making efforts to retain key foreigners in their squad.
They have offered Saul Crespo a two-year contract extension, while centre-back Hijazi Maher has accepted the club’s offer to stay until 2026. East Bengal have also decided to keep their captain and star striker Cleiton Silva for one more season, with the veteran now aged 38.
East Bengal preparing for new season with contract renewals
𝘽𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙎𝙖𝙪𝙡 — 2026 📞❤️💛
— Tᴏʀᴄʜ Bᴇᴀʀᴇʀs 🔴🟡 (@TORCH__BEARERS) April 18, 2024
East Bengal's midfield engine Saul Crespo 🇪🇦 has agreed a contract extension, keeping him at the club for the next two seasons.#JoyEastBengal #EastBengalFC pic.twitter.com/4k8pk3NVLL
The Super Cup winners have signed Madih Talal, and also added to their midfield by recruiting Mark Zothanpuia from Hyderabad FC. They are also planning for a number of departures at the end of the season.
Felicio Brown Forbes, Victor Vazquez, Jose Pardo and Jordan Elsey are expected to leave the club in June. Elsey suffered a major injury in the Durand Cup final against Mohun Bagan SG last summer, and has been sidelined for the entire season.
He was quite impressive in the Cup run last year, and could end up staying. But, the decision depends on his fitness levels once they are assessed by the club. Two new foreigners could also join the club, one of which must be a new striker.
A defensive midfielder is also necessary, now that Pardo will leave the club. This will help provide a physical presence in the middle of the park and provide much needed cover to the defence.
