East Bengal FC Parts Ways with Three Foreign Players Ahead of New Season

Indian Super League club East Bengal FC has confirmed the departure of three of its foreign recruits — Hector Yuste, Richard Celis, and Raphael Messi Bouli — as part of a squad revamp ahead of the upcoming season. The announcement was made through an official statement on Thursday, marking a significant change in the club’s roster strategy.

“The club would like to thank Hector Yuste, Richard Celis and Raphael Messi Bouli for their services. We wish them the best in their future endeavours,” the statement read, signaling the end of their respective tenures in Kolkata.

The departures come as the Red and Gold Brigade look to restructure under new ambitions following a mixed performance last season. Of the three players, Cameroonian striker Raphael Messi Bouli made the most immediate impact despite joining the club mid-season in January. 

Bouli, who arrived on a free transfer from Chinese League One side Shijiazhuang Gongfu, featured in eight matches for East Bengal. He netted three goals and provided one assist, offering a glimpse of his attacking prowess in a short span.

In contrast, Venezuelan forward Richard Celis, another January signing, struggled to find form. Brought in with expectations to strengthen the forward line, Celis played nine matches but failed to register any goals or assists. His underwhelming output likely contributed to the club’s decision to not retain him.

Spanish defender Hector Yuste had a longer stint, having joined East Bengal from city rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant before the start of the previous season. Yuste proved to be a regular presence in the backline, amassing 25 appearances across all competitions and contributing two assists. While his defensive solidity was appreciated, the club appears to be moving in a new direction, possibly looking to refresh its foreign player slots.

These changes suggest that East Bengal is aiming to bolster its squad with fresh international talent ahead of a crucial season, where fans will be hoping for a stronger push in the league. The club’s next moves in the transfer market will be closely watched, as supporters look for a lineup capable of challenging for top honors.

With the departures now official, East Bengal’s rebuild is clearly underway, and more announcements are expected in the coming weeks as the club prepares for pre-season.