Mehtab Singh’s highly anticipated move from Mumbai City FC to Mohun Bagan Super Giant has been officially completed, with the ISL champions announcing the signing on their social media handles today. The defender has agreed to a five-year contract with the Mariners, marking a significant addition to their squad as they prepare for the upcoming season and their AFC Champions League 2 campaign.
Table of Contents
The Transfer Details Unfold
Mohun Bagan Super Giant took to their official social media channels to confirm the completion of Mehtab Singh’s transfer from Mumbai City FC. The five-year contract demonstrates Mohun Bagan’s long-term commitment to the versatile defender, who has been one of the most consistent performers in the Indian Super League over recent seasons.
The official announcement timing aligns perfectly with Mohun Bagan’s preparation schedule, as head coach Jose Molina looks to finalize his squad composition before pre-season training intensifies. There will be more incomings at Bagan, according to sources close to the club, indicating that Singh’s arrival is just the beginning of an ambitious transfer window for the champions.
Singh’s Journey Back to Kolkata
Mehtab is no stranger to the footballing culture of Kolkata. He rose through the youth ranks of East Bengal and represented the Red and Gold Brigade between 2016 and 2020. His return to the City of Joy, albeit in the green and maroon of Mohun Bagan, represents a homecoming of sorts for the defender who understands the passion and intensity of Kolkata football.
Singh joined Mumbai City FC in August 2020 from East Bengal FC, for whom he made 17 league appearances in total, providing two assists. During his time with the Islanders, Singh developed into one of the most reliable defenders in the league, showcasing his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
Filling the Defensive Void
Ahead of last season, the Mariners lost Anwar Ali to arch-rivals East Bengal. That departure left a big void in their backline. While the club successfully recruited foreign centre-backs Alberto Rodrigues and Tom Aldred, who delivered strong performances throughout the campaign, the addition of Singh provides crucial Indian player quota depth and experience.
This summer, Mehtab Singh had been strongly linked with Mohun Bagan, and now his imminent arrival will strengthen head coach Jose Molina’s defensive options. The Mariners are currently preparing for the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL2), where squad depth will be vital.
Mohun Bagan’s Recent Defensive Signings
Player | Position | Previous Club | Contract Length |
---|---|---|---|
Alberto Rodrigues | Centre-Back | Foreign Recruit | 2 years |
Tom Aldred | Centre-Back | Foreign Recruit | 2 years |
Mehtab Singh | Centre-Back/Full-Back | Mumbai City FC | 5 years |
Abhishek Singh | Centre-Back | Techcom SC | 3 years |
Impressive Performance Record
Mumbai City FC’s Mehtab Singh has appeared in the vast majority of the club’s Indian Super League matches in 2024/2025, making 23 appearances overall and accumulating 2,070 minutes of playing time. He has started in all 23 of these appearances across their 25 fixtures. This consistency demonstrates his reliability and fitness levels, crucial attributes for a defender expected to play a key role in Mohun Bagan’s multi-competition season.
The 26-year-old played a key role for the former ISL Cup winners, keeping 10 clean sheets and making 19 blocks in 23 ISL games last season. His defensive statistics highlight his contribution to Mumbai City’s solid defensive record, skills that will be invaluable to Mohun Bagan’s championship aspirations.
Mehtab Singh Career Statistics
Club | Period | Appearances | Goals | Clean Sheets |
---|---|---|---|---|
East Bengal | 2016-2020 | 17 | 0 | N/A |
Mumbai City FC | 2020-2024 | 23 (last season) | 1 | 10 |
Mohun Bagan SG | 2024-2029 | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Strategic Importance for Mohun Bagan
Mohun Bagan’s pursuit of Singh reflects their strategic approach to squad building. Mohun Bagan have won a record 7 Indian League titles — the National Football League 3 times, the I-League 2 times and the Indian Super League Shield 2 times. The club’s rich history of success creates expectations that require careful squad management and strategic recruitment.
Bagan also won both the ISL Shield and Cup. Their consistency ensured Bagan did not feel Ali’s absence. However, with the added burden of continental competition and the demanding ISL season, depth in every position becomes crucial.
Continental Ambitions Drive Recruitment
The AFC Champions League 2 represents a significant step for Mohun Bagan, requiring squad depth and quality that can compete across multiple fronts. Singh’s experience and proven track record in high-pressure situations make him an ideal addition for these continental challenges.
His familiarity with Indian football conditions and his ability to adapt quickly to new systems will be valuable assets as Molina implements his tactical philosophy. The five-year contract length suggests Mohun Bagan view Singh as a cornerstone of their future plans, not just a short-term solution.
Additional Reinforcements on the Horizon
But in addition to Singh, the club is also closing in on signing Robson Robinho. Sources close to the club have confirmed that the Brazilian winger is expected to arrive in Kolkata next week. Thus, he will likely become Mohun Bagan’s sixth foreign recruit for the season.
The indication that “there will be more incomings at Bagan” suggests the club’s ambitions extend beyond these two signings. With continental competition on the horizon and the demanding ISL season ahead, strategic recruitment across all positions appears to be the priority.
Market Dynamics and Competition
Mumbai City were in talks with the player regarding a new contract. However, the terms had not been agreed upon. The 26-year-old was reportedly looking for a long-term contract. Mohun Bagan’s ability to offer the five-year deal that Singh was seeking demonstrates their commitment and financial capability compared to other suitors.
The transfer also represents a significant statement of intent in the competitive ISL transfer market, where top Indian talents are increasingly sought after by multiple clubs.
Read More: Barcelona Secures UEFA Approval to Begin Champions League 2025-26 Campaign Away From Home
FAQs
hen was Mehtab Singh’s transfer to Mohun Bagan officially announced?
The transfer was officially completed and announced today via Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s social media channels after Singh successfully passed his medical examination.
How long is Mehtab Singh’s contract with Mohun Bagan Super Giant?
Singh has agreed to a five-year contract with Mohun Bagan, demonstrating the club’s long-term commitment to the defender.
Why did Mohun Bagan target Mehtab Singh specifically?
Singh fills the defensive void left by Anwar Ali’s departure and provides crucial squad depth for their AFC Champions League 2 campaign and ISL title defense.
What was Mehtab Singh’s performance record at Mumbai City FC?
Singh made 23 appearances in the 2024/25 ISL season, keeping 10 clean sheets and making 19 blocks, demonstrating his defensive reliability.
Are there more signings planned for Mohun Bagan this transfer window?
Yes, sources indicate there will be more incomings at Bagan, with Brazilian winger Robson Robinho also close to joining the club.