Did East Bengal FC Just Make a Game-Changing Trio Signing?

Kolkata, July 18 (NationPress) East Bengal FC has officially confirmed the acquisitions of Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira, Palestinian international midfielder Mohammed Rashid, and Argentine defender Kevin Sibille as part of the club’s strategic enhancements for the 2025-26 season.

Miguel Figueira, a dynamic midfielder celebrated for his creativity and defensive skills, reunites with Coach Oscar Bruzon, under whose mentorship he thrived at Bangladesh’s Bashundhara Kings. There, he secured three consecutive Bangladesh Premier League titles (2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24) along with two Independence Cups (2022-23 and 2023-24). Before his time at Bashundhara, he played for Brazilian Serie B club Goiás EC. During his tenure, Miguel netted 37 goals and provided 26 assists across 64 appearances.

Miguel shared his enthusiasm about joining East Bengal FC, stating, “I am thrilled to become part of this legendary club and rejoin Coach Bruzon and S & C Coach Javier Sanchez. Their influence has been pivotal in my career. I aspire to have a fantastic season and bring home trophies for this great club and its supporters.”

Mohammed Rashid, a key player for the Palestinian national team, adds defensive strength and tactical discipline to the roster. Having played a vital role in helping Palestine reach the Round of 16 in last year’s AFC Asian Cup, Rashid enhances the team's midfield with his robust style and ability to stabilize play. The 30-year-old arrives in India following a successful period with Indonesian Super League side Persebaya Surabaya, where he featured in 33 matches and scored 6 goals, demonstrating his dual capability in defense and attack.

His previous experiences include stints with Bali United (Indonesia), Jabal Al-Mukaber (Palestine), Smouha SC (Egypt), Persib Bandung (Indonesia), Al-Jeel (Saudi Arabia), Shabab Al-Bireh (Palestine), and Hilal Al-Quds (Palestine).

Rashid expressed, “I am honored to become part of the Red & Gold family. I aim to contribute significantly to the club’s quest for titles. I eagerly await my time on the pitch in Kolkata and achieving remarkable feats for the East Bengal supporters. Joy East Bengal!”

Kevin Sibille, a product of the renowned River Plate Academy, joins the Red & Gold Brigade from Spanish club SD Ponferradina. Sibille showcased his defensive talent during his time with Atletico Baleares, CD Castellon, and Valencia B. In the 2024-25 season, the 26-year-old accumulated 2,602 minutes over 32 matches for Ponferradina.

Sibille remarked, “I feel privileged to be part of such a historic club like East Bengal. I am eager to play in Kolkata, engage with the passionate fans, and create unforgettable memories with them—moments we can all cherish.”

Commenting on these new signings, East Bengal FC Head Coach Oscar Bruzon stated, “Miguel is a transformative player in the attacking phase. He’s at the peak of his career and is expected to deliver exceptional quality and score critical goals for us. Kevin is a modern center-back, excelling in primary defensive roles while contributing to offensive strategies with his passing and ball control.

Rashid is a disciplined and strong-willed defensive midfielder, recognized for his ball-winning skills, interceptions, tactical awareness, leadership, high work rate, and mobility. While primarily focused on anchoring, Rashid has adapted his style to support offensive plays with effective distribution and long-range shots.”